Western Thrace Turkish Community mourns the passing of Dr. Hikmet Cemiloğlu

The Western Thrace Turkish community is mourning the loss of one of its most respected and beloved figures, Dr. Hikmet Cemiloğlu, widely known as “Dr. Hikmet,” the first Turkish doctor of İskeçe (Xanthi). He was 83.

Born in İskeçe in 1942, Cemiloğlu completed his primary and secondary education in Western Thrace before pursuing medical studies. After initially enrolling at Ege University’s Faculty of Medicine, he transferred to Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, where he graduated. He went on to serve the people of İskeçe for many years, earning a reputation not only for his professional excellence but also for his dedication to the community.

Beyond his medical career, Dr. Cemiloğlu played a prominent role in civic life. 

He was the founding president and first chairman of the Western Thrace Minority Graduates Association, bringing together members of the Turkish minority with higher education backgrounds and spearheading an important civil society initiative.

In 1985, he ran as a parliamentary candidate in İskeçe on the independent İkbal List. He also served two terms as president of the İskeçe (Xanthi) Turkish Union, contributing significantly to the institutional strength of the community. For a brief period, he additionally held the presidency of BAKEŞ.

A leading figure in the struggle for the rights of the Western Thrace Turkish Minority, Dr. Cemiloğlu was known for his integrity, humility and warm relations with people from all walks of life. His generosity and strong sense of social responsibility earned him deep respect and affection.

Dr. Cemiloğlu, who had been experiencing health problems in recent days, passed away at İskeçe State Hospital after being taken there late Tuesday night. He is survived by his wife, Leyla Cemiloğlu, and their daughter, Pelin.

Funeral prayers will be held Wednesday, Feb. 11, at the Çınar Mosque in İskeçe following the afternoon (asr) prayer, after which he will be laid to rest at the Lower Neighborhood Cemetery.

Condolences are extended to his family, loved ones and the entire Western Thrace Turkish community.