Fethullah Gulen: The Controversial Cleric Who Shaped Turkish Politics Passes Away at 83

The world has lost a significant figure in Turkish politics as Fethullah Gulen, the influential cleric and former ally of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has died at the age of 83. His death, reported by Turkish officials and a media outlet linked to Gulen's movement, marks the end of a tumultuous chapter in Turkey’s political landscape.

A Complex Legacy

Gulen’s death was announced by Herkul Nagme, a news outlet associated with his followers, stating, “Our religious leader, the great Fethullah Gulen, who dedicated his life to Islam and serving humanity, has walked on to the horizon of his spirit.” Gulen had been receiving medical treatment prior to his passing.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan confirmed Gulen's death at a news conference, vowing to continue the government's fight against what they label as a terrorist organization—the Gulen movement. “The leader of this dark organization is dead. Our resolve in fighting terrorism remains ongoing,” Fidan emphasized.

From Preacher to Political Player

• Early Life: Born in 1941, Gulen rose through the ranks of Turkey's religious bureaucracy, establishing a significant following over the decades.
• Exile: He moved to the United States in 1999, purportedly for health reasons, though critics claimed he was evading scrutiny for undermining Turkey's secular government.
• Hizmet Movement: Gulen's followers, many from the lower-middle class, formed the Hizmet movement, which has been credited with founding schools, hospitals, and relief agencies across the globe.

From Allies to Adversaries

Initially, Gulen's movement supported Erdogan when he took power in 2002, assisting in military purges against secular officers. However, their alliance began to crumble in the early 2010s amid accusations of corruption and government crackdowns on Gulenist institutions.

The relationship soured dramatically after the failed coup attempt in 2016, which resulted in the deaths of 290 people. Erdogan accused Gulen of orchestrating the coup, leading to a widespread crackdown on alleged Gulenists within Turkey.

The Global Impact of Gulen’s Movement

The Gulen movement has established a vast network of schools and universities in over 100 countries, promoting interfaith dialogue and education. While supporters describe Gulen as a moderate cleric, critics label him a terrorist and a traitor to Turkey.

Conclusion

Fethullah Gulen's death leaves a complex legacy that continues to fuel political tensions in Turkey. As the nation grapples with the implications of his passing, questions regarding the future of his movement and its influence linger in the air.

What do you think?

• Was Gulen a misunderstood reformer, or a dangerous manipulator?
• How will Gulen's death affect Turkey's political landscape?
• Should the U.S. have extradited Gulen to Turkey following the coup attempt?
• What does the future hold for the Gulen movement and its followers?
• Is it fair to label Gulenists as terrorists, or does this oversimplify the movement's impact?