Greece’s mufti appointment sparks strong reaction from Western Thrace Turkish Minority: MP Baran speaks out
Speaking to Millet, Baran said that a legal amendment introduced by the New Democracy government in 2022 has deepened existing problems instead of resolving them. He recalled that minority representatives had raised concerns when the regulation was first introduced, noting that the latest appointment in Dimetoka has confirmed those warnings.
Baran cautioned that similar appointments could follow in Xanthi and Komotini, stressing that religious affairs are an extremely sensitive issue for the minority community.
“This decision was taken without consulting the minority or engaging with community leaders. Such an approach has caused serious discomfort within the community, and unfortunately, this unease is likely to grow,” Baran said.
“We Want to Choose Our Own Religious Leader”
Baran emphasized that the minority’s fundamental expectation is to determine its own religious leadership from within the community, underlining that a mufti must genuinely represent the people.
He stated that all three minority MPs had clearly conveyed this position, but their appeals were ignored by the government. According to Baran, neither the Dimetoka appointment nor the acting mufti (deputy) arrangements in Xanthi and Komotini have provided lasting solutions.
“These developments are creating new problems not only in the sphere of ethnic identity but also in the religious domain,” he said.
“People want to see their own mufti when fulfilling their religious duties. This sensitivity must be understood. We tried to convey this spirit. We hope these warnings will be taken seriously in the future.”
Clear Message on Oath Ceremony Debate
Baran also addressed questions regarding the participation of Rodopi MP Ilhan Ahmet in a swearing-in ceremony held at the Ministry of Education. He confirmed that although he and some other MPs had been invited, they deliberately chose not to attend, arguing that the ceremony did not reflect the will of the minority.
Limiting his comments on the participation of another MP, Baran stressed that each politician is responsible for their own decisions and consequences.
“My duty is to defend the will and spirit of the minority, shaped over many years. Respecting this will and carrying it into parliament is our responsibility,” Baran concluded.
