Despite the polarization that existed between the ruling party AKP and the opposition CHP in the local elections, the lists of the left Kurdish BDP, which together with allied forces set up the HDP, gathered an estimated result of more than 7%.
The Party of the European Left (EL) congratulates the BDP-HDP for the increase of their lists in the Kurdish areas where the alliance managed to elect the majority of the mayors.
It is undoubtedly a positive development and creates better conditions for the promotion of the peace process, which should lead to the recognition of democratic and cultural rights for the Kurds, in the interests of peace and democracy throughout the Middle East.
The EL salutes the decision of the alliance to have 50% of women candidates and LGBT activists among its lists.
Brussels, 31st March