ÎDIR – Ahmet Tutulmaz, Chair of the Îdir (Iğdır) Bar Association, stressed that the Parliamentary commission should not be a mere formality and emphasized the need for legal regulations.

 

The democratic resolution process for the Kurdish issue continues with the work of the “National Solidarity, Fraternity and Democracy Commission” established in the Parliament. Having held three meetings so far, the commission’s fourth session is scheduled for August 19-20. Representatives suggested by political parties are expected to attend this week’s meeting for consultations.

 

Ahmet Tutulmaz shared his views on both the process and the commission’s activities.

 

‘A POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT’

 

Tutulmaz highlighted that the initiative for forming the commission was persistently advocated by Kurdish People’s Leader Abdullah Öcalan, the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, and civil society organizations. He described the commission as a desired effort by all segments of society. “For a more democratic and equitable commission, all parties represented in Parliament should have equal membership. Nevertheless, establishing the commission at this stage is a positive development. So far, they have met three times and determined their working procedures. The CHP and DEM Party have submitted lists of civil society groups, professional organizations, thinkers, writers, and journalists whose opinions should be heard. Once the commission forms a working system, it will consult these institutions and individuals to shape its core framework,” he said.

 

‘SHOULD BECOME A BROAD PLATFORM’

 

Emphasizing that the lists presented by DEM Party and Republican People's Party (CHP) offer a wide perspective, Tutulmaz noted that the peace process concerns everyone in Turkey and that all affected parties, especially those impacted by conflict, must be heard in the commission. “Listening to these people is essential to shape the demands of society and peoples. As regional bar association heads, we informed the Parliament Speaker and party leaders that the Turkish Bar Association can contribute. According to media reports, both the Turkish Bar Association and regional bar associations are included in the DEM Party’s list for consultation. This is significant for us. The commission should transform into a broad platform where everyone’s views can be expressed and heard,” he stated.

 

‘NOT A MERE FORMALITY’

 

Tutulmaz warned against the commission becoming a “venting” body or a paper exercise. He said, “After hearing all professional organizations, civil society groups, and political parties, the commission must produce a concrete report reflecting its conclusions and present it to Parliament. A step has been taken following the state’s meeting with Öcalan, but this must be substantiated. After weapons are laid down, the state must regulate the legal framework under Parliament’s roof. The commission’s work must result in tangible legal arrangements. Parliament and all political parties, especially the ruling party, must take this seriously and legislate accordingly. A legal infrastructure is necessary because no step can be taken without legal security. People need to see the path ahead and know they will not face repercussions for their words. Therefore, the process must be concretized here. This highlights the importance of the commission.”

 

EXPECTATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION

 

Expressing his expectations, Tutulmaz concluded: “We expect every elected member of Parliament to act with the conscience this historic moment demands. After hearing institutions, professional bodies, and individuals, a report must be prepared and submitted to the government, Parliament, and political parties. We look forward to the commission carrying out its work with historical seriousness and responsibility. As regional bar associations, we are ready to do our part.”