Speaking on behalf of the group, Bese Hozat emphasized that the process began with Abdullah Öcalan’s call and that there was no hesitation in bringing it forward.

 

Hozat said: "Our arrival here was based on a very clear decision. We are aware of why we are here. This step is a political stance," adding that they acted in accordance with Abdullah Öcalan’s call made on 27 February. "There was no hesitation from the leadership," she said.

 

A STEP TOWARD A POLITICAL SOLUTION

 

Hozat described the decision to disarm as a gesture of goodwill and said this step should not go unanswered.

 

"We don’t just want to come down from the mountains. We want to become pioneers of democratic politics in Amed, Ankara, and Istanbul," said Hozat, arguing that the state’s current approach makes this transition difficult.

 

‘WEAPONS ARE NOW AN OBSTACLE’

 

Speaking about the weapons burned during the ceremony, Hozat said: "For a movement that calls for democratic politics, weapons are now an obstacle. We want to remove these obstacles with seriousness and responsibility."She also added that the peace process cannot be one-sided.

 

‘WE MADE SACRIFICES, NOW WE EXPECT A STEP’

 

KCK Executive Council co-chair Hozat said that they have done everything they can for the process to progress successfully and have made sacrifices. "Now the ball is in the other side’s court. We are waiting for the necessary steps," she said, adding that the state’s stance will be decisive for the continuation of the process.

 

‘WHAT I WORE REPRESENTS MY POLITICAL IDENTITY’

 

Responding to a question about why she wore a different outfit from the other guerrillas at the ceremony, Hozat said: "I came to this ceremony as a representative of a political movement. That’s why I chose a different outfit. I also carry out my duty as KCK co-chair."