ANKARA, Turkey — On Monday, the Turkish government announced the removal of three mayors affiliated with pro-Kurdish parties over allegations linked to terrorism. The country’s Interior Ministry confirmed that these officials, who were elected leaders from the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM), would be replaced by state-appointed individuals.

This decision comes on the heels of another significant political event where a mayor from Turkey’s primary opposition party was arrested and subsequently removed from his post due to supposed connections with a banned Kurdish militant organization. Analysts perceive this action as a move by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s administration to tighten its grip on the opposition.

The dismissal of the mayors, who preside over predominantly Kurdish areas such as Mardin and Batman, as well as Halfeti in Sanliurfa province, stems from prior convictions and ongoing legal proceedings related to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). This party is designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union. The affected mayors were elected in local elections held earlier this year.

Speculation regarding a broader peace initiative to resolve the ongoing 40-year conflict with the PKK has risen, especially following comments made last month by the head of a far-right nationalist party aligned with Erdogan’s government. The remarks suggested a possible release for the imprisoned PKK leader, contingent upon a disavowal of violence and disbanding of the group, igniting discussion around potential paths for peace.

Ozgur Ozel, leader of the principal opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), condemned the dismissals, labeling them a “coup” and insinuating that Erdogan was appropriating control over municipalities he could not obtain through electoral means. The pro-Kurdish movement has frequently faced crackdowns, where numerous politicians and party members have encountered accusations relating to their affiliations with the PKK, leading to arrests and stripped parliamentary roles.

Ahmet Turk, the dismissed mayor of Mardin, expressed defiance through his social media account, vowing to continue advocating for democracy, peace, and freedom. He stated, “We will not allow the usurpation of the people’s will,” reinforcing the ongoing struggle within Turkey’s political landscape.