Sırrı Süreyya Önder, a member of the Imralı Delegation and Deputy Speaker of Parliament from the Peoples' Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, passed away on May 3rd, leaving a legacy of fighting for a peaceful resolution to the Kurdish question. Thousands visited the condolences organized by DEM Party in various provinces, and Dicle Anter was among the visitors in Dêrsim (Tunceli).

 

Anter, who met Önder in 2011, emphasized the need for collective efforts to preserve the hope for peace.

 

‘HIS HUMOR REMINDED ME OF MY FATHER’

 

Recalling his meetings with Önder, Anter said, “We had a modest and critical conversation, discussing my father and art.” He said Önder is a someone who always sought justice and advocated for democratic steps, added: “We don’t just know Sırrı Süreyya Önder as a politician. He was a poet, writer, director, and a voice for the people’s pain. He was one of the important figures that emerged from the suffering in Kurdistan.”

 

Anter highlighted that Önder fought for peace until the very end and said: “Sırrı was one of those crushed by the September coup. He suffered torture during his time in prison and faced many hardships. Despite all this, he fought against a serious illness. His humor reminded me of my father, Musa Anter, whose wit many remember.” 

 

He added: "If you set the equation wrong from the beginning, the result will be wrong too," emphasizing the need to rebuild the system from scratch to achieve peace, justice, and democracy.

 

‘WE ALL NEED TO CONTRIBUTE’

 

Stating that democracy requires political intelligence Anter stressed: “Hatred and division have deepened in society, and the youth have the greatest responsibility. They must rise up for peace. Leaders must adopt peace, but words alone aren’t enough; practical steps must be taken. The Decree Laws and violations in Turkey block peace, and these unjust practices must end. Everyone must contribute to peace in this country.”

 

MA / Şilan Şirvan Çil