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Following the announcement by the terrorist organization PKK of its dissolution, after a call by its ringleader, Abdullah Ocalan, to lay down arms, the first official response came from the spokesperson of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party), Omer Celik.
In his statement, Celik emphasized that the decision by the PKK to dissolve and cease its armed activities is a significant step in Türkiye's efforts towards a "terror-free Türkiye."
He stressed that this development marks a new phase in the government’s ongoing fight against terrorism, one that follows the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose unwavering political will and clear strategy have been key in guiding the country’s approach to security and stability.
He also highlighted the contribution of Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli, whose historic call and firm stance have played a crucial role in reinforcing Türkiye’s internal unity and resolve.
"The productive and effective dialogue between political parties, consultations, and discussions has made democratic politics the legitimate address for taking responsibility and leading initiatives in this process," said Celik.
He pointed out that the PKK’s decision to dissolve and abandon arms marks an essential step toward achieving a "terror-free Türkiye." However, Celik underlined that for this goal to be fully realized, the process must be carried out effectively, with all branches and illegal networks of the organization dismantled.
"The process will be closely monitored by state institutions, and the developments will be reported to President Erdogan," Celik added. Celik also noted that the dissolution of the PKK and its decision to disarm will have broader and regional implications.
He highlighted that this move will help counter the imperialist agendas in the region, where terrorist organizations have historically been used for proxy warfare, and thus curb external threats.
"Achieving a 'terror-free Türkiye' will allow the country's political channels to function more effectively, especially in an era when politics globally is increasingly losing substance. This will strengthen our democracy, political life, and national unity," stated Celik.
He emphasized that the goal of a "terror-free Türkiye" means benefiting all citizens, irrespective of their cultural, ethnic, or sectarian backgrounds, and that the process will pave the way for a stronger, more unified future for Türkiye.
Turkish Communications Director Fahrettin Altun hailed the development as "a clear indicator that the terror-free Türkiye process, led by our President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has successfully advanced through an important phase."
Altun emphasized the sacrifices made during the 40-plus years of conflict. "Türkiye has paid various prices, endured hardships, and most importantly, lost its children as martyrs for the homeland," he said. "We commemorate each of our martyrs, who deserve the greatest credit for bringing us to this day, with mercy and gratitude."
The communications director assured the public that necessary measures would be taken to ensure the process proceeds smoothly. "All steps will be taken in a sensitive and transparent manner, with determination and meticulousness," Altun stated.
He cautioned against expectations of an immediate resolution, describing the terror-free Türkiye initiative as neither "a short-term, shallow process that developed overnight" nor one that "will end very quickly from today to tomorrow."
"The Republic of Türkiye will continue to work with all its knowledge, capacity and experience to establish an environment where our beautiful country Türkiye and our noble Nation are free from terrorism, violence, and chaos; where peace, tranquility and stability prevail," Altun said.
The breakthrough follows what Turkish officials describe as a collaborative national effort. "Our noble Nation demonstrates at every opportunity that it supports the political will put forward by our state, our government and our President," Altun noted.
The communications director credited Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli with initiating the call that led to this development, which has continued under President Erdogan's leadership. "I hope that our Terror-Free Türkiye march, in which the Nation and the State walk hand in hand, will lead to beneficial outcomes for our country and our region," he concluded.
Ahmet Buyukgumus, Vice Chairman of the AK Party, took to social media to address the development, describing it as a historic threshold in Türkiye's counter-terrorism efforts.
"We are at a critical turning point for the unity and brotherhood of our nation. We owe gratitude to every member of our precious nation who is the real owner of this struggle," Buyukgumus stated.
He emphasized that the anti-terror campaign, conducted with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's resolute stance and powered by state strength and the unwavering will of the people, has entered a new phase.
The AK Party official expressed commitment to building on this momentum: "After this point we have reached through the sacrifice of our martyrs, the courage of our veterans, and the prayers of our nation, we will continue our path by strengthening our state and increasing the peace and prosperity of our people."
Buyukgumus added, "The goal of a 'Terrorism-free Türkiye' will now stand before us as a more concrete and closer horizon. Our goal is not only the laying down of weapons, but also the disappearance of the mentality, along with all structures that feed terrorism, before history."
AK Party Deputy Chair Efkan Ala characterized the PKK’s decision as a significant milestone on the path toward a terrorism-free Türkiye. He stressed that the disbandment and disarmament decision marks a critical phase in the process of eliminating illegal structures tied to the organization.
Ala noted that the mechanisms required to manage this transition would now be activated, emphasizing that the government remains determined—under the leadership of President Erdogan and with the support of MHP leader Bahceli—to advance toward the shared goal of lasting peace and security in Türkiye.
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