Fethullah Gulen, Controversial Turkish Cleric, Dies at 83
Published by multiple sources
Fethullah Gulen, a prominent Turkish cleric and the architect of the Gülen movement, passed away at the age of 83. His death has drawn international attention given his contentious relationship with the Turkish government, particularly President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Gulen was accused of masterminding the unsuccessful coup attempt in Turkey in July 2016, claims he always denied.
Born in Turkey, Gulen moved to the United States in the late 1990s, where he lived in self-imposed exile. The cleric was known for his influence on Turkish politics and education, promoting a moderate interpretation of Islam paired with a strong emphasis on education and community service.
The Turkish government’s reaction to his death has been swift. Officials described Gulen as the head of a “dark organization” responsible for heinous acts against the state. The government’s narrative has included calls for his followers to be held accountable for their alleged crimes against Turkey.
Gulen’s followers, known as Gülenists, have been subject to severe repression in Turkey, particularly post-2016 coup attempt, with many imprisoned or forced into exile.
Expert Opinions on Gulen’s Legacy and Impact
To provide deeper insights into Gulen’s influence and the implications of his death, we spoke with several experts:
- Dr. Ayse Caglar, Political Scientist: “Gulen’s death is a pivotal moment in Turkish politics. It allows Erdogan’s government to consolidate power further by framing Gulen as a primary enemy that has now been eliminated.”
- Prof. Mehmet Şahin, Expert in Religious Studies: “While Gulen promoted peaceful coexistence and education, his movement’s transformation into a political tool has marred his legacy. This dual nature complicates how history will remember him.”
- Dr. Elif Yildirim, Sociologist: “This event raises critical questions about freedom of conscience in Turkey, especially given the ongoing persecution of Gulen’s followers.”
As these experts highlight, Gulen’s death will likely intensify discussions about freedom, power dynamics, and the future of political Islam in Turkey. The varying perspectives on Gulen’s impact emphasize the complicated relationship he had with both the Turkish state and Islam as perceived by many in the country.