Historical Castle Van which has seen many Newroz celebrations once again welcomed tens of thousands of people. One of the most glorious Newroz celebrations which was held with the slogan “Dem dema serkeftinê ye” (Now is the time to win) have taken place in the Newroz Park where Castle Van and Lake Van meets. Despite the heavy snowfall started last night and continues today, people are pouring to the Newroz Park.

 

WOMEN AND YOUTH FLOKING TO THE PARK

 

Tens of thousands of people flocked to the park under the snow. People were able to enter the area passing through 4 different check points. Citizens entering the park with slogans through check points, are dancing the Halay. The park is filled with the colours red, yellow and green. In the area where banners written, "Now is the time to win, Dem dema azadiya jinan e and Dem dema serkeftinê ye, thousands are shouting “Bijî Serok Apo" and “Şehit Namirin”, followed by a minute of silence.

 

HDP Provincial CO-Chair Handan Karakoyun said: "Newroz is resistance and struggle' while the other Co-chair Fikret Doğan said: "We have paid a great price to come here. Embrace those who fell for it. Thank you all."

 

Tens of thousands of people formed a circle around the Newroz fire while shouting slogans. Their only demand was the freedom of PKK Leader Abdullah Öcalan.

 

Taking the stage, Peace Mother Xecê Akdoğan said: "We do not accept the isolation on our leader. This isolation must be lifted. We don't want anyone to die. We want everyone to live in peace."

 

'TODAY IS THE DAY  FOR THE FREEDOM OF ÖCALAN'

 

HDP Batman MP Feleknas Uca said: "We are calling out from the Newroz celebration in Van. Those who turn a blind eye should know that there is a great struggle for the freedom of Mr. Öcalan. Today is the day for the freedom of Öcalan. Whatever you do, you can not stand in front of this demand. Today is the day for the freedom of Mr. Öcalan."