ABTTF President voices support for defendants in Çınar Mosque case
In a public statement, Habip Oğlu declared: “You are not alone! A community of 150,000 stands behind you,” referring to the defendants facing charges linked to events that took place during Friday prayers in October 2024.
Background of the Case
The case stems from an incident on October 11, 2024, when tensions arose at the Çınar Mosque in İskeçe involving state-appointed deputy muftis. Four community representatives — Hüseyin Baltacı, Ozan Ahmetoğlu, Bahri Belço, and Murat Köse — were subsequently charged.
Authorities allege that the defendants obstructed public officials and disturbed public order during the incident.
Trial Postponed Until June
The first hearing took place on March 27, 2026, at the Xanthi Single-Member Criminal Court of First Instance. Following a request by defense lawyers, the trial was adjourned to June 5, 2026.
Claims of Religious Rights Violations
In his statement, Habip Oğlu argued that the case reflects broader issues concerning religious autonomy and minority rights in Greece.
He cited Article 13 of the Greek Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion, as well as international agreements such as the Treaty of Athens 1913 and the Treaty of Lausanne, which recognize the religious rights of the Western Thrace Turkish Minority.
According to Habip Oğlu, legislative changes since 1991 have allowed the state to appoint muftis, undermining the community’s right to elect its own religious leaders.
“A Pre-Determined Scenario”
The ABTTF president claimed that the prosecution of the four individuals represents what he described as a “pre-determined scenario”, arguing that the community is being unfairly targeted while its internationally recognized rights are being eroded.
He contrasted the situation with other recognized religious groups in Greece, noting that they are able to freely manage their religious institutions and leadership, unlike the Muslim Turkish minority.
Call for Solidarity
Concluding his statement, Habip Oğlu framed the case as one of collective concern for the entire community, emphasizing solidarity with the defendants and calling attention to what he names as systemic injustices.
