Four Minority representatives to stand trial in İskeçe over Mufti dispute

The case stems from an incident that took place on October 13, 2024, at the Cinar Mosque, where a confrontation occurred during Friday prayers after the presence of state-appointed religious officials sparked objections from members of the congregation.

Charges and Court Proceedings
The four defendants—Ozan Ahmetoğlu, Hüseyin Baltacı, Bahri Belço, and Murat Köse—face charges of “using violence” and “disrupting a religious gathering.”

The first hearing will take place at the Single-Member Misdemeanor Court of İskeçe.

Background: Tensions Over Mufti Authority
The incident followed a medrese opening ceremony attended by Greek officials, including a senior representative from the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs. After the event, state-appointed muftis reportedly entered the mosque in religious attire and sought to participate in the Friday prayer.

Members of the congregation objected, expressing support for Mustafa Trampa as their religious authority and opposing what they described as externally imposed appointments.

The disagreement escalated briefly inside the mosque before the visiting officials left the premises.

Broader Debate on Minority Rights
The case has reignited debate within the Turkish minority community in Western Thrace regarding religious autonomy, the status of muftis, and broader minority rights.

Several civil society organizations and community representatives are closely monitoring the proceedings, viewing the trial as a significant development in the ongoing discussion over religious freedoms and institutional representation in the region.

The court hearing on March 27 is expected to draw considerable attention both locally and nationally.