Dangerous ideology escalates tension in Xanthi: A new provocation through the Mufti appointment?
Tensions are escalating in Xanthi, where the Greek government's ongoing systematic pressure on the Turkish minority in Western Thrace continues. The latest move involves a controversial decision by the Greek Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs, which has appointed Cihat Halil Bilal as the acting Mufti of Xanthi, replacing Necden Hemşeri. This move is viewed by the local Turkish minority as part of a broader campaign to disregard their religious will and further undermine their rights.
Continued Systematic Oppression
The Turkish minority sees this appointment as another attempt to impose control over the Muftiate, violating their rights guaranteed by the Lausanne Treaty. The Ministry's decision, which was announced on December 6, 2024, places Cihat Halil Bilal in the role for a temporary period from December 7, 2024, until February 8, 2025. Despite the Ministry's claim of addressing urgent operational needs, local representatives view it as a calculated effort to provoke and disrupt the peace in the region.
Resistance and Tensions Over the Appointment
Cihat Halil Bilal had previously faced strong opposition from the Turkish minority, particularly after a protest on October 11, when he attempted to enter the Cinar Mosque, resulting in a clash with the community. His appointment has now fueled further accusations of provocation, with many questioning the Greek government's intentions in aggravating tensions with the Turkish minority.
The Role of Yorgos Kalantzis
The Turkish minority has pointed to Yorgos Kalantzis, the Secretary-General of Education and Religious Affairs, as the architect of the escalating tensions. Kalancis, long criticized for his anti-Islamic and nationalist policies, is seen as exacerbating the situation, especially through measures that restrict religious and educational freedoms in the region. His policies are seen as contributing to the continued marginalization of the Turkish community in Western Thrace.
The Turkish Minority’s Resolve
Despite these challenges, the Turkish minority in Western Thrace remains steadfast in defending their rights as guaranteed by the Lausanne Treaty. They argue that these moves are designed to create chaos rather than peace and that Greece’s actions undermine both international law and regional harmony.
International Law and Greece’s Interference
Since 1991, Greece has denied the Turkish minority the right to elect their own muftis, opting instead for government-appointed figures, undermining both religious freedoms and minority autonomy. The recent developments in Xanthi are seen as part of this broader pattern of interference, which not only violates minority rights but also damages Greek-Turkish relations.
The ongoing situation highlights the deepening crisis in Greece’s minority policies and the growing risk of further conflict. The Greek government's disregard for the Turkish minority’s rights raises concerns about the potential for more instability in the region and underlines the importance of respecting international agreements to ensure peace and cooperation.
