The Turkish Parliament's Justice Committee was set to begin discussions on the draft of the Law on Strengthening National Solidarity and Social Integration, landmark legislation aimed at accelerating the disarmament of the PKK terrorist group.
The discussions on Friday were expected to conclude within hours, with Parliament's General Assembly set to debate and likely approve the bill on Sunday. The law will pave the way for the return of PKK members from abroad to surrender to the authorities, while the execution of their sentences is expected to be deferred if they are not found to have been involved in acts of terrorism.
PKK members seeking deferred sentences will be allowed to apply after Turkish authorities officially announce that the terrorist group has fully laid down its arms. Those who do not apply will remain subject to judicial proceedings and the execution of their sentences.
PKK members in Iraq will apply through Turkish diplomatic missions in that country, according to a report by the Sabah newspaper. Most PKK members are currently based in the Qandil Mountains in northern Iraq. In Syria, another stronghold of the terrorist group, PKK members will also be able to surrender through Turkish diplomatic missions. Those residing in Europe will similarly be processed through Turkish embassies and consulates across the continent.
