Provocation attempt in Western Thrace: Appointed muftis withdraw from mosque in face of Turkish Minority's conscience

The Aşağımahalle Çınar Mosque in İskeçe witnessed a noteworthy event just before Friday prayers. Following the inauguration of İskeçe Religious High School (Medrese), which took place with the participation of Yorgos Kalantzis, the General Secretary for Religious Affairs at the Ministry of Education, the appointed muftis tried to enter the mosque wearing their robes. However, they were met with strong resistance from the mosque congregation. The Turkish minority saw this act as an attempt at provocation and refused the muftis' entry.

The Turkish minority in Western Thrace emphasized that they respect everyone's right to worship, stating that they were not opposed to the three individuals wanting to pray. However, the issue arose because, according to Islamic tradition, religious leaders must be accepted by the community’s conscience. The appointed muftis, who were not accepted by the local minority, attempted to enter the mosque regardless. The congregation offered a compromise: "We will respect you if you remove your robes." The appointed muftis refused, continuing what the congregation viewed as a provocation.

As a result, the appointed muftis were left standing at the mosque’s entrance. The congregation, demonstrating politeness, handed the muftis their shoes and escorted them to the exit. This symbolic act reaffirmed the Turkish minority’s commitment to their own chosen religious leadership, rather than state-imposed figures.

The congregation then prayed with their elected mufti, Mustafa Trampa, sending a strong message against the government appointments. This event highlighted the community’s dedication to preserving social harmony and respect for genuine religious leadership. While the Turkish minority stands for the right to worship freely, they remain firm against any attempts at discord, affirming that the mosque’s doors are open for sincere prayer, not provocation.