Death of Fethullah Gülen: A Controversial Figure in Turkish Politics
Fethullah Gülen, the influential Turkish preacher and former ally of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has passed away at the age of 83 in the United States, where he had lived in exile since 1999. His death was confirmed by Turkish state television and various social media accounts associated with the Gülen movement. Gülen was widely regarded in Turkey as a 'traitor' and an enemy of the state, particularly following the failed coup attempt in July 2016, which the Turkish government accused his movement of orchestrating.
The announcement of Gülen's death sparked celebrations among supporters of Erdogan, with many labeling him as the leader of a 'terrorist organization' known as FETÖ (Fethullah Gülen Terror Organization). Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan confirmed the news, stating that Gülen's death would not lessen the ongoing tensions between the government and his followers. Following the coup attempt, the Turkish government initiated extensive purges, resulting in nearly 700,000 prosecutions and thousands of dismissals from public service, targeting those associated with Gülen's movement.
Legacy and Impact of the Gülen Movement
Fethullah Gülen was the founder of the Gülen movement, also known as Hizmet, which established a vast network of schools and organizations worldwide. Initially an ally of Erdogan, Gülen's relationship with the president soured after a corruption scandal in 2013, leading to accusations that he had created a 'parallel state' aimed at undermining the Turkish government. Following the coup attempt, Erdogan intensified his crackdown on Gülenists, claiming that they infiltrated the military and other state institutions.
Gülen's movement has faced significant backlash in Turkey, with many of its institutions closed and its members persecuted. The preacher's death raises questions about the future of the movement and its internal power struggles, as various factions may vie for leadership in the wake of his passing. Despite his controversial legacy, Gülen's influence extended beyond Turkey, impacting education and religious discourse globally.
