Prominent Turkish Politician Sirri Süreyya Önder Dies at 62

Sırrı Süreyya Önder, the Deputy Speaker of the Turkish Parliament and a prominent member of the pro-Kurdish DEM Party, has died at the age of 62 after 18 days in intensive care following a heart attack and aortic rupture. Önder was rushed to the Florence Nightingale Hospital on April 15, 2025, where he underwent emergency surgery, including a Bentall procedure and bypass, but ultimately succumbed to multiple organ failure. Known for his wit, artistic talent, and strong advocacy for peace, Önder played a key role in Turkey's peace processes with the PKK, serving as an intermediary in negotiations and helping facilitate ceasefires. His background was shaped by diverse ideological influences and early engagement with leftist movements, as well as periods of imprisonment following the 1980 coup and later for his political activities. Önder's passing has led to widespread expressions of condolence from political figures and the public, reflecting his impact across both the cultural and political spheres in Turkey. He is remembered for his commitment to dialogue, democracy, and the Kurdish political movement.