Feud between two families in Mardin ends with peace ceremony

In the Kuyulu neighborhood of Artuklu district in Mardin, a feud that began approximately 2.5 years ago after an incident resulting in the death of a woman and injuries to nine people has been resolved through a peace ceremony. The conflict between the Çalışkan and Acar families came to an end after extensive efforts by community leaders, tribal chiefs, and a peace commission. The reconciliation process was facilitated by Ferhan Bozkuş, the provincial head of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) in Mardin, who brought together the elders of both families to reach an agreement.

The peace ceremony was hosted by the Acar family in the Kuyulu neighborhood. Attendees included the district governor of Artuklu, Muhammed Öztabak; the provincial mufti, Dr. Enver Türkmen; community leaders; tribal chiefs; representatives of non-governmental organizations; and many guests from surrounding provinces and districts. During the ceremony, İbrahim Çalışkan and M. Ali Acar embraced in front of hundreds of people, officially ending the hostility. After recitations from the Quran and prayers, the parties shook hands one by one.

Following the peace ceremony, a reconciliation meal was held in the neighborhood, attended by approximately 2,500 people. Families and guests gathered at the same table, prayed together, and shared a meal, expressing hopes for lasting peace. The parties, reuniting after years, conveyed messages of unity, solidarity, and brotherhood. This event symbolized the importance of social peace and reconciliation.

District Governor Muhammed Öztabak stated that the reconciliation is not only a gain for the two families but also for the entire society. He said, "Today's peace is not just a reconciliation between our two families; it is a very valuable step that strengthens the bonds of brotherhood in our district and region. I believe that this exemplary behavior shown by the Çalışkan and Acar families will serve as a model for resolving other disputes." He emphasized that lasting social peace requires the joint efforts of the state, family elders, and community leaders.

Ferhan Bozkuş, the MHP provincial head, stressed that social peace will be strengthened through dialogue and a culture of reconciliation. Referring to the "Terror-Free Turkey" vision of MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli, Bozkuş said, "We want to establish this understanding in our region. If necessary, we will go door to door to explain brotherhood, unity, and solidarity. Our community leaders, tribal chiefs, and all dynamics of society must take responsibility." The families also expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the process and wished for the peace to be permanent.