Criterion Reference for DTP: Democracy or Terrorism
Criterion Reference for DTP: Democracy or Terrorism

Summary/Abstract: DTP (Democratic Society Party)[1] seemed to open a new chapter with the last elections. The party had been trying to give an impression of receding from the terrorist organization PKK (Kurdistan Workers Party) and seeking solutions to the problems of Turkey. At least, leading figures like Aysel Tugluk and Ahmet Turk had publicly given signs in this direction. “Nobody should expect the mistakes done in 1991, everyone can feel free from anxiety” were the words of those popular figures. Though approaching with caution, many regarded those as having potency, at least being worth enough to wait and see. The initial stance after the elections raised the hopes, indeed. The early attitudes properly fit the requirements of political course. The DTP MPs were acting according to the parliamentary rules and political principles. Talks seemed to be politically compatible after all. It was as if politics would defeat violence, sense would overcome anger and buncombes would give their places to reasonableness and wisdom. However, hawkish names like Leyla Zana and Hatip Dicle, did not wait too long to dent the normalization process, which was sustained despite several interruptions during the election time.

• Details
• Contents