In a recent statement to Ednews, Turkish political scientist Selin Senocak emphasized the distinction between Türkiye 's Kurdish population and the PKK (Kurdistan Workers' Party), asserting that the country's challenges lie with the latter rather than the former.
Prof. Senocak underscored that recent terrorist incidents attributed to the DEM party, seen as a political extension of the PKK, aim to destabilize Türkiye and incite civil conflict. "Türkiye does not have a Kurdish problem," she stated firmly, "it has a 'PKK' problem."
Highlighting the unitary nature of the Turkish state, Prof. Senocak condemned attempts by certain groups to advocate for autonomy, describing such efforts as fundamentally incompatible with the nation's territorial integrity. She lamented the exploitation of political power by certain factions, warning against the consequences of conceding to demands that undermine the unity of the state.
Drawing attention to recent events in the city of Van, where illegal demonstrations and attacks against security forces have occurred, Prof. Senocak cautioned against the escalation of tensions. She criticized the DEM party for operating more as a civil arm of the PKK rather than a legitimate democratic entity and questioned the basis upon which political bans on individuals associated with such groups are lifted.
Anticipating further conflict following recent elections, Prof. Senocak urged the Turkish state to take decisive action against those who encourage discord and subversion. She warned against the dangers posed by concessions made to groups like the DEM party, arguing that such compromises jeopardize the nation's survival.
The recent electoral success of DEM-supporting parties, particularly the CHP (Republican People's Party), has raised concerns about the growing influence of terrorist sympathizers within Turkish politics. Senocak stressed the need for the state to assert its authority and uphold the rule of law in order to combat the PKK's agenda effectively.
In conclusion, the political scientist reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to combating terrorism and maintaining its unitary structure. She expressed confidence in the state's ability to confront the PKK and its affiliates legally, thereby safeguarding the nation against internal strife and external interference.