Western Thrace Mosques Religious Officials Association: "We condemn the provocation attempt strongly and with deep regret"

In their statement, the association expressed: “We strongly condemn this provocative act and once again publicly declare that we stand by and fully support the muftis whom we have freely chosen with our will.”

The full statement from the Western Thrace Mosques Religious Officials Association reads as follows:

"On Friday, October 11, 2024, by disregarding the will and sacred values of the Western Thrace Muslim Turkish Minority and ignoring the sensitivity of the community regarding the right to appoint their own muftis, the appointed mufti deputies of İskeçe, Gümülcine, and Dimetoka attempted to provoke by attending the İskeçe Çınar Mosque under the guise of leading the Friday prayer. As the Western Thrace Mosques Religious Officials Association, we strongly and regretfully condemn this act.

While the Western Thrace Muslim Turkish Minority expects their rightful and internationally recognized right to elect their own muftis—currently seized by arbitrary measures—to be restored, the attempt to impose this fait accompli is deeply concerning.

Following the opening ceremony of İskeçe Medrese, attended by Yorgos Kalancis, Secretary General of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs, the appointed mufti deputies attempted to enter İskeçe Çınar Mosque wearing religious attire (turban and robe) under the pretense of leading the Friday prayer. The congregation regarded their attempt as a provocation and prevented them from entering.

Once again, the Western Thrace Muslim Turks stood firmly by the mufti whom they have freely chosen, asserting, 'Our Mufti is inside.' They also expressed to the deputies, 'You have no place here,' ensuring their removal from the mosque to prevent further unrest.

As the Western Thrace Mosques Religious Officials Association, we strongly condemn this provocative action and reiterate our unwavering support for the muftis freely chosen by our community."