A leading member of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), Cemil Bayık, has stated that Turkey must address the situation of imprisoned PKK founder Abdullah Öcalan and the group’s leadership for ongoing peace efforts to succeed. Bayık cautioned that solely focusing on ceasing armed conflict is insufficient for lasting peace. He emphasized the necessity of accompanying any ceasefire with substantial democratic reforms within Turkey. The PKK official’s statement suggests the group requires guarantees regarding Öcalan’s well-being and potential role in any future political settlement. Without clarity on these core issues, Bayık warns the current peace process risks stagnation. His comments highlight the complexities facing renewed negotiations between Turkey and the PKK. These demands signal the PKK’s insistence on a comprehensive approach to peace, extending beyond simply ending hostilities.