Former Mustafçova Mayor Cemil Kabza condemns “Kalanta” event at Dolaphan Middle School

Cemil Kabza, former Mayor of Mustafçova and head of the Mustafçova Municipality People’s Movement list, has strongly condemned the organization of a Christian “Kalanta” event at Dolaphan Middle School, where all students belong to the Muslim community.

Kabza stated that the event, which reportedly featured the singing of Kalanta hymns associated with Orthodox Christian New Year traditions, does not align with the religious and cultural values of the students.

“Unacceptable in a School of Muslim Students”

According to Kabza, information circulating on social media and in the press — as well as references on the school’s official social media account — confirmed that the Christian tradition-linked activity took place at the school.

“It is not acceptable for an event identified with Christian New Year traditions to be organized in a school attended entirely by Muslim students,” Kabza said in a public statement.

He emphasized that in schools where minority students are educated, religious, cultural, and artistic activities must take into account the faith and cultural identity of the student body.

Call for Greater Sensitivity in Minority Education

Kabza argued that such sensitivities should not be overlooked, especially in educational institutions serving minority communities.

He described the event as incompatible with both religious and cultural values and publicly condemned the initiative.

“In schools attended by minority students, these sensitivities must not be ignored. This practice does not align with our religious or cultural values, and I condemn such initiatives,” he stated.

Questions Over Municipal Involvement

Kabza also raised concerns regarding the role of Mustafçova Mayor Ahmet Kurt, claiming that the municipality had allocated budget funds for New Year or Christmas-related activities in schools within municipal boundaries.

While Mayor Kurt reportedly stated that payment authorization was rejected and that the amount was “offset,” Kabza pointed out that the official document bore the mayor’s name.

“If it occurred without his knowledge, he should have noticed earlier and prevented the publication of that official document. Otherwise, it suggests that the mayor did not fully exercise his responsibilities,” Kabza argued.

He concluded by calling on the municipal administration to act with greater caution and firmness when addressing highly sensitive matters related to religion and identity.