The Democratic Institutions Platform is set to hold a rally titled “Hope and Freedom” on Jan. 25 at Amed’s (Diyarbakır) Station Square, under the slogan “The freedom of the leadership is the freedom of Rojava.” The event is scheduled to begin at noon and will feature speeches by several Kurdish political figures and activists.

 

Speaking ahead of the rally, Sayyiğit urged strong participation, saying the event would carry significance beyond the city of Amed.

 

“The physical freedom of Abdullah Öcalan is of critical importance,” she said. “This rally concerns everyone who demands democracy, peace and freedom.” Sayyiğit said Kurds have faced decades of displacement, killings, village evacuations and assimilation policies, adding that political gains achieved in recent decades were closely linked to Öcalan’s role.

 

She also criticised what she described as Öcalan’s long-term isolation, saying restrictive conditions had continued for 27 years despite his repeated calls for dialogue and negotiation. Calling for the implementation of the “right to hope,” Sayyiğit said Turkey was acting contrary to international legal commitments it has signed.

 

“Öcalan remains under isolation while the state acts with full authority,” she said. “For his physical freedom to be ensured, the principle of the ‘right to hope’ must be put into practice.” Sayyiğit said the rally aimed to send a strong public message and called on people from across the country to attend. “This is a call not only to the people of Amed, but to everyone who wants peace and democracy in these lands,” she said.