Imprisoned Turkish Politician Can Atalay Calls to Protect 'Fire of Peace'

Can Atalay, a lawmaker for the Turkish Workers' Party (TİP) from Hatay and currently imprisoned in Silivri's Marmara Prison due to the Gezi trial, has issued a statement regarding the "Framework Law" proposal being debated in the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM). Atalay reiterated a call he made on March 4, 2025, urging citizens to "surround the fire of peace that is being tried to be extinguished, so that it does not go out due to the harsh political storms blowing from all directions."

Atalay suggested that efforts to lift the shadow of violence surrounding the Kurdish issue could present an opportunity for new social and political agreements. He stressed that this endeavor should be reciprocated and that all viewpoints must be freely expressed and thoroughly discussed in a peaceful environment, rather than being left to "de facto situations" or the "tolerance of politics."

In his statement, titled "My reminder and stance for 'removing the shadow of violence from the country and the democratic demands of our Kurdish citizens'!", Atalay recalled his February 2025 call for "laying down arms." He noted that despite the current democratic political environment being more negative than a year ago, steps towards "non-violent politics" are crucial. He urged people to pay attention to the call for a "peaceful political environment" made to foster dialogue on the Kurdish issue without the specter of violence.

Atalay acknowledged the suspension of the constitution and laws, and the prevalence of arbitrariness, but urged focus on the call for peace. He stated that democratic demands, including those of Kurdish citizens, cannot flourish without a democratic environment, and that any steps taken cannot be guaranteed or become permanent under current conditions. He concluded by emphasizing the need to protect and socialize the call for peace, preventing it from being extinguished by political storms.