İsmail Rodoplu remembered on sixth anniversary of his death

The memorial ceremony was held on September 2 at the cemetery of Semetli village, near Gümülcine, Rodoplu’s birthplace. It was organized by the BTAYTD, where Rodoplu served as president for the longest period in the association’s history.

During the ceremony, BTAYTD member Seher Ahmet read a biography outlining Rodoplu’s life and contributions to the community. Nihat Kaplan, a religious official affiliated with the Gümülcine Mufti’s Office, recited verses from the Quran before leading a prayer.

“He left us a legacy of love for the community and public service”
BTAYTD President Zeynep Tevfikoğlu spoke about Rodoplu’s significance to both herself and the Western Thrace Turkish community.

Tevfikoğlu described Rodoplu as more than a former community leader, recalling him as a respected elder whose dedication to the community she had witnessed from an early age.

“He left us a legacy of love for the community and a commitment to serving it,” Tevfikoğlu said, adding that the association continues to preserve this legacy and pass it on to younger generations.

She also expressed her appreciation for the participation of young people in the memorial ceremony and remembered Rodoplu with respect, affection and gratitude.

The ceremony concluded following the speeches.

Among those attending were Friendship, Equality and Peace Party (FEP) President Çiğdem Asafoğlu, Western Thrace Turkish Teachers’ Union President Aydın Ahmet, BTAYTD Women’s Branch President Gizem Besim, former MP Ahmet Hacıosman, former FEP Party President Mustafa Aliçavuş, former president of the Gümülcine Turkish Youth Union Koray Hasan, members of Rodoplu’s family and members of the Western Thrace Turkish community.