The Impact of Fethullah Gulen's Death on Türkiye's Hizmet Movement
The recent death of Fethullah Gulen, the US-based cleric and founder of the Hizmet movement, marks a pivotal moment in Turkish politics and the future of his organization. Gulen was accused by the Turkish government of orchestrating the failed coup attempt in July 2016, which resulted in significant political turmoil and a crackdown on his followers within Türkiye. His passing raises questions about the future cohesion of the Hizmet movement, which has established a global presence through schools, cultural institutions, and a vast financial network.
Gulen's influence extended far beyond being a mere religious figure; he played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape in Türkiye, particularly during times of military rule. His organization, often referred to as a 'parallel structure,' thrived during periods of political repression, leveraging its connections to navigate the complex political environment. However, with Gulen's death, the organization faces potential fragmentation as various factions vie for leadership and control over its extensive resources.
Future Prospects for the Hizmet Movement
Despite the challenges ahead, experts suggest that the Hizmet movement is unlikely to disintegrate immediately. The organization has managed to maintain a presence in various countries, despite facing closures and government crackdowns. The succession of leadership is now a critical issue, with potential successors like Mustafa Ozcan and Cevdet Turkyolu emerging as key figures. The internal power struggle, coupled with external pressures from intelligence services in countries where the organization operates, could influence its future trajectory.
In Türkiye, discussions about the potential resurgence of the Hizmet movement and its implications for internal stability continue. Security operations against its members remain ongoing, highlighting the perceived threat the organization poses. Gulen's death may accelerate the dismantling of the organization if his successors fail to fill the leadership void or maintain the loyalty of followers.
On the international stage, Gulen's death could impact Turkish-American relations, particularly surrounding the contentious issue of Gulen's extradition. The United States has consistently rejected Turkey's requests to extradite Gulen, citing a lack of sufficient evidence. His passing may alleviate some diplomatic tensions, but the future of the Hizmet movement and its relationship with the US will remain closely monitored by Ankara.
