Politics in Turkey: pro-Kurdish Party Says “Our Collaboration with Ruling Alliance is Process-Oriented, only”
Clarification on Erdoğan’s Remarks
Pervin Buldan, a Member of Parliament from the pro-Kurdish “Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party” (DEM Party) and a member of the İmralı (island) delegation, responded to President Erdoğan’s recent statement in which he said, “The AK Party, Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), and DEM have decided to walk this path together as a tripartite alliance.” Buldan emphasized that these remarks should not be interpreted as signaling a political alliance. Instead, she clarified that it represented a collaboration specific to the resolution process, describing it as a process-oriented alliance, not a broader political partnership.
Focus on the Resolution Process
Buldan underlined that while the DEM Party played a central role in the resolution process, the primary responsibility for progress lies with the People’s Alliance (Cumhur İttifakı). She positioned the DEM Party as fully committed to the process, but not at the expense of its political independence or principles.
Significance of Erdoğan’s Tone and Acknowledgments
Buldan characterized Erdoğan’s recent speech as generally positive and inclusive. She highlighted his willingness to acknowledge past state wrongdoings, including unsolved political murders, the use of White Toros vehicles by security forces, the burning of villages, and the suppression of the Kurdish language. She noted that his self-critical tone and references to these issues were especially meaningful and signaled a potentially serious commitment to change.
Expectation of Concrete Steps
According to Buldan, Erdoğan now appears to have a clear direction and determination regarding the resolution process. She suggested that significant steps may be on the horizon. Emphasizing the importance of dialogue, negotiation, and cooperation between the People’s Alliance and the DEM Party, she noted that these elements are essential for the process to succeed.
Urgency and Legislative Action
Buldan cautioned against allowing the process to stagnate, warning that delays could invite provocations and unwanted external interventions. She stressed the importance of swift and decisive action. The formation of a commission stands out as a key phase in the process, and Buldan called for the rapid passage of necessary legislation as soon as Parliament reopens, in accordance with the decisions made by this commission.
Conclusion
Pervin Buldan’s response underscores that the term “tripartite alliance,” as used by President Erdoğan, should not be mistaken for a political coalition. Instead, it refers to a temporary and functional cooperation aimed at advancing the resolution process. Her statements reaffirm the DEM Party’s continued commitment to its political stance while engaging in this effort. She also placed the onus for meaningful progress squarely on the ruling alliance and urged immediate action to prevent potential setbacks and ensure the credibility of the process.
