I begin with these two questions: Is the Democratic Party’s struggle a history full of pride?! Or was it just a process where anyone could join, some fell, and others became martyrs—just a cycle repeating itself?
Before going to Northern East Kurdistan, I became acquainted with Ali Kashifpur up close through the congresses and meetings of the Central Committee.
From a distance, I had my doubts about the party’s organizational capabilities in the north. My doubts were particularly about the presence of a structured system and whether tribalism still had a strong influence.
This skepticism led me to closely observe the attitudes and behaviors of the cadres and Peshmerga coming from the north to the party’s central headquarters, their participation in congresses, and their engagement in plenary sessions.
Eventually, after some time of travel and assessment, I found myself involved in the struggle in Northern East Kurdistan. There, I once again worked closely with Ali Kashifpur as a comrade.
From the very beginning of my struggle in the north, I was met with numerous complaints and criticisms regarding Ali.
Most of these criticisms came from certain influential figures within the Ararat Committee. (I should also mention that before heading to the north, I had heard some rumors within the Political Bureau, as there were individuals in the headquarters who, without understanding, simply echoed what they had heard.)
Work officially began in the north. The beauty of the party’s democratic process was that every cadre and Peshmerga had the right to voice their concerns.
Frequently, two or three comrades would come to me with complaints, and in many cases, their concerns were directed at Ali Kashifpur. However, after a few conversations with these comrades, I realized that they had no concrete evidence to support their claims.
Therefore, I saw it as my duty to both reassure these comrades and highlight the sincerity of Ali Kashifpur.
As one of the leaders of Northern Kurdistan, Ali Kashifpur never backed down in the face of criticism or hardship.
Over time, I realized that one of the major challenges faced by the cadres and Peshmerga of the north was a lack of self-management and the inability to make independent decisions based on their own understanding of the situation.
The prevailing norm in the north was to wait for leadership and commands from the central headquarters of the party.
A saying from the past dictated their mindset: “A boy from our family can never become a man.” And unfortunately, this was happening in the north.
The Personality of Ali Kashifpur
Knowledge and Expertise:
Ali Kashifpur was an intellectual, a scholar, a thinker, and a planner. He left his university studies behind to dedicate himself entirely to the party’s struggle.
Without hesitation, I can say that Ali Kashifpur embodied three key characteristics:
- Hardworking and dedicated,
- Highly knowledgeable,
- Deeply patriotic and responsible.
Resilience and Strength:
Ali Kashifpur was patient, calm, and composed. In most meetings and gatherings, he participated with such wisdom and charm that one could not help but learn from him.
Collaboration and Teamwork:
From my experience in different parts of Kurdistan, where I also held responsibilities, I can confidently say that Ali Kashifpur was one of the most selfless and dedicated comrades I ever worked with.
He spoke with conviction, believed in the struggle, and was a true democrat—always respecting the decisions of his fellow comrades.
Courage and Revolutionary Spirit:
Ali Kashifpur was a brave fighter. I personally witnessed his tactical skills and leadership in several battles.
He was fearless in the face of danger, whether leading as a commander or fighting alongside his comrades as a simple Peshmerga. He despised corruption, favoritism, and selfish interests. He fought with his heart and soul for the Kurdish cause.
Integrity and Honesty:
I cannot claim to have judged everyone’s integrity within the party, but I can say with certainty that no one could ever accuse me of financial misconduct.
And as for Ali Kashifpur, I can confidently state that he was among the most trustworthy and honest individuals.
Ali Kashifpur’s Love for Northern Kurdistan:
He dedicated himself to bringing organization and structure to the party’s work in the north.
He had unwavering faith in implementing party decisions and worked tirelessly to weaken the grip of tribalism over the political landscape. Sadly, in Turkey, he was targeted and assassinated by dark forces of terrorism. I firmly believe that Ali Kashifpur’s struggle and sacrifices should be recognized and honored in the most serious manner.
The history of the Democratic Party is glorious because of the sacrifices of its members, Peshmerga, cadres, and leaders.
The legacy of the fighter and leader Ali Kashifpur will live on in our hearts forever.
26th of Sermawez, Kurdish Year 2720
Caefer Hamidy