The Nobel Peace Prize Committee
Nobelinsintuttet
Drammensvein 19
N-0225 Oslo, Norway

Dear Committee Members:

I write to recommend for your consideration a candidate for the Nobel Peace 
Prize.  I can imagine the many difficulties you face in making such a choice 
for this important recognition.  As a Member of the United States House of 
Representatives I have worked hard to bring a greater degree of social and 
economic justice into the lives of the citizens of our world.  I share your hope 
and efforts to cultivate peace and encourage the peacemakers.

One such peacemaker that I have gotten to know in my public service capacity 
is Mrs. Leyla Zana, a duly elected colleague, who served in the Turkish 
parliament.  She was committed to prison by Turkish authorities for her 
peaceful advocacy of Kurdish rights both in Turkey and abroad.

As you know, the effort to silence the messenger is an old practice.  The 
Turkish authorities are using force and intimidation in an effort to muzzle 
the voice of the Kurds.  Thousand of villages have destroyed and millions of 
their residents have become destitute refugees.  I have devoted myself to 
stopping this violence and to encouraging a climate that permits the Kurds to 
live in peace as full citizens in their native lands.  Their plight and treatment 
reminds me of the tragic history of Armenian people.  I pray that through 
responsible collective action their fate will be different.

Mrs. Leyla Zana has attempted to reverse the wrongs that have been 
perpetuated upon the Kurds.  For her efforts and for the price which she is 
currently paying for her actions, I sincerely urge you to give her consideration 
as your nominee for the 1998 Nobel Peace Prize.  May your actions pave the 
way for peace for the Kurds.

Sincerely,




Estaban E. Torres
Member of Congress