PKK poisoning Nevruz

The PKK previously held a huge demonstration, on Feb. 15 [the anniversary of the capture of PKK chief Abdullah Öcalan], to display its power to the government, but it was poorly attended, and the PKK then banked on Nevruz, hoping it could create the impression it had aimed for on Feb. 15. Yet, March 18 turned out to be just another disappointment. Blaming only the government for what happened that day would be to take the easy way out. Of course, it is the government’s duty to allow people their rights and freedoms, which includes the celebration of certain significant days, but on the other hand, another duty is to prevent the flames of rebellion and conflict.