Türkiye submits terror amnesty bill as PKK peace process moves to parliament
Türkiye’s ruling AK Party submitted a 12-article legislative proposal to parliament aimed at creating the legal framework for what the government calls the “Türkiye Without Terror” process, as efforts linked to the PKK peace initiative move into the legislative phase.
The proposal, titled the Law Proposal on Strengthening National Solidarity and Social Integration, received nearly 360 signatures before being submitted to the speaker of the Grand National Assembly.
The bill would suspend investigations, prosecutions and enforcement of certain convictions related to PKK membership and activities, provided the group formally lays down its weapons and dissolves. The process would require verification by security institutions and confirmation through a National Security Council decision published in the Official Gazette.
Leaders and serious offenders excluded
AK Party parliamentary group chairman Abdullah Guler said the proposal aims to reintegrate individuals who abandon violence into society.
However, the bill excludes PKK leaders and administrators, individuals convicted of intentional killings linked to organizational activities, and those sentenced to life imprisonment for crimes committed before June 1, 2005.
Deferral system introduced for eligible cases
Under the proposed framework, individuals convicted of covered offenses with sentences of up to 15 years could receive a five-year suspension of enforcement.
Those facing sentences exceeding 15 years, including life or aggravated life imprisonment, could receive a 10-year deferral.
Ongoing investigations and prosecutions would follow similar timelines, with five-year suspensions for less serious charges and 10-year suspensions for more serious cases.
The proposal includes an automatic cancellation clause. If a person benefiting from the suspension commits another terrorism-related offense during the deferral period, the suspension would be revoked and the original sentence enforced.
Oversight council to monitor implementation
The bill proposes establishing a high-level monitoring council chaired by the vice president and including the justice, foreign affairs, interior and national defense ministers, as well as senior officials from the presidency, the National Intelligence Organization (MIT) and the National Security Council.
The council would oversee implementation, while parliament would establish a separate monitoring commission to follow developments and issue recommendations.
Officials carrying out duties under the law would be protected from civil, administrative and criminal liability for actions taken within the scope of their responsibilities.
Parliament prepares review process
Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus described the proposal as a significant step for Türkiye’s future, saying it could create new opportunities during the Republic’s second century.
AK Party spokesman Omer Celik said the submission marked the most important stage of a two-year process.
A parliamentary commission is scheduled to meet Friday to begin reviewing the proposal.
Source:AA
