Mufti appointment process launched in İskeçe after Dimetoka

Despite ongoing objections from representatives of the Western Thrace Turkish Minority, Greek authorities have initiated a new mufti appointment process in İskeçe, following a similar procedure carried out in Didymoteicho in December.

Minority representatives argue that instead of advancing a consensual solution to the long-standing mufti issue, the new move risks further deepening tensions.

Official Announcement Published

According to a notice published in the Government Gazette, a mufti will be appointed to serve a five-year term in İskeçe, with the possibility of one renewal.

The announcement details eligibility requirements, including:

• Greek citizenship
• Membership in the Muslim minority of Thrace
• Permanent residence in the regional units of Meriç, Rhodope, or İskeçe

Not having reached the age of 62 by the application deadline

Graduation from the Muslim Studies Program of the Faculty of Theology at Aristotle University of Selanik, or possession of a recognized Islamic theology degree from abroad

At least five years of service as a registered imam or religious instructor in the state’s Religious Officials Registry, or alternatively, graduation from a regional madrasa and at least 10 years of service as an imam or religious teacher

Applications will open the day after the announcement’s publication in the press and must be completed within 10 working days.

Minority Representatives Call It an “Appointment,” Not an Election

Representatives of the Western Thrace Turkish Minority maintain that although the government presents the process as a “mufti election,” it is effectively a state appointment.

They argue that since candidates must meet criteria set by the state and the final decision rests with state authorities, the procedure does not reflect a direct and democratic expression of the community’s will.

Criticism Over Lack of Consultation

A central point of criticism is the absence of consultation with minority institutions, elected representatives, and community bodies before launching the process. Minority leaders contend that Athens has once again proceeded without dialogue, disregarding longstanding demands for the community to elect its own religious leader.

Similar appointment processes in the past have sparked controversy and protests, with minority representatives arguing that such measures undermine the principle of religious autonomy.

As reactions resurface, community leaders reiterate that the mufti institution should be determined through a method grounded in social legitimacy and free community choice, rather than state intervention.