FEP Party holds 7th Ordinary General Assembly in Gümülcine
The Friendship, Equality, and Peace (FEP) Party, the political representative of the Turkish minority in Western Thrace, held its 7th Ordinary General Assembly on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the Cris & Eve Hotel in Komotini.
The assembly began at 11:00 a.m. with a moment of silence honoring the party’s founder and first president, the late Dr. Sadık Ahmet, and his colleagues. A slideshow highlighting Dr. Ahmet’s life followed the tribute. The program, moderated by Burak Adil, continued with protocol speeches.
Leadership and Minority Advocacy
FEP Party President Çiğdem Asafoğlu emphasized the party’s role as the voice of the Western Thrace Turkish minority:
“Every vote we receive is a voice against injustices. Greece must recognize my Turkish identity today, as it did in the past for our associations. Open the historical associations that were closed, and allow new ones to form.”
She expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the party’s mission, from founders to current members, women’s and youth branches, and European Parliament candidates.
Former DEB President Mustafa Ali Çavuş highlighted the challenges faced by the minority:
“Unfortunately, the Western Thrace Turks are shrinking, losing population, and facing economic pressures. The Greek state seems intent on erasing this community instead of preserving its culture and identity. We must remain united to protect our future.”
Honorary President Işık Sadık Ahmet underlined the party’s legacy and the continuation of Dr. Sadık Ahmet’s vision:
“FEP Party is the greatest gift of my late husband to his people. Today, it is carried forward by a capable, courageous female leader, symbolizing the presence and determination of Western Thrace Turkish women in politics.”
She also called on the Greek state to officially recognize the muftis of Xanthi and Komotini.
Community Support and International Advocacy
İskeçe Mufti Mustafa Trampa and other community leaders praised FEP Party’s efforts, emphasizing its role in representing the Turkish minority at national and European levels. Trampa said:
“FEP Party represents us strongly in political arenas, both in Greece and abroad. We must continue our work with determination and education, without losing hope.”
Other speakers, including association leaders and founding members, reiterated the importance of unity, education, and minority representation.
Election Results
The assembly concluded with the election of the party’s new leadership. Çiğdem Asafoğlu was re-elected as FEP Party President, and the new Central Executive Committee members were determined.
