Turkey moves to pass PKK disarmament law, excluding Öcalan and top commanders

The Turkish government is preparing a framework law linked to the PKK's weapons‑surrender process, aiming to have it approved before the parliament recesses for holiday. Implementation will be conditional on a verification report prepared by the National Intelligence Organization (MİT) and the Armed Forces (TSK) and submitted to the National Security Council. The law will only take effect once the council confirms, with at least an 80 % confidence level, that the organization has dissolved and its weapons have been handed over.

The draft excludes Abdullah Öcalan and senior PKK officials from any legal benefits. It provides that former members who did not participate in crimes and voluntarily leave the group may avoid prosecution, while those previously convicted of terrorism could receive reduced sentences. Prisoner files will be reviewed individually after the law enters force. The measure is described as temporary, with a possible duration of six months to one year after verification. Individuals returning to Turkey will be placed under judicial control for three to five years, barred from public office and political activity.