Fethullah Gülen, a Turkish cleric who lived in self-imposed exile in the U.S., has passed away at 83. Known for founding the Hizmet movement and being a former ally turned adversary of Turkish President Erdogan, Gülen's death marks the end of a significant era in Turkish politics and global Islamic social movements. His movement, accused by Turkey of orchestrating a failed coup in 2016, remains controversial and influential.
Fethullah Gülen, the Turkish Islamic cleric who inspired a worldwide social movement and was a central figure in a contentious political saga with Turkey's government, died in Pennsylvania at the age of 83. Gülen, who had faced allegations of plotting a coup against Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan—a claim he vehemently denied—spent his final years in the U.S., continuing to advocate for education, dialogue, and peaceful activism despite his declining health.
Gülen's journey from a revered preacher to a political fugitive began in the 1960s when he started promoting education and interfaith dialogue in Turkey. His movement, Hizmet, expanded globally, establishing schools and charities. Initially an ally of Erdogan, their relationship soured dramatically post-2013 over accusations of corruption in Erdogan's circle, which Gülen's media outlets reported on. The fallout led to Gülen's self-exile and Erdogan's accusations against him of orchestrating a failed coup in 2016, which led to massive purges in Turkey.
Despite his controversial status, Gülen's influence remains strong among his followers. His philosophy of integrating Islam with democratic values and education has left a lasting impact. The global network of schools and charities he established continues to operate, though under increased scrutiny. His death raises questions about the future leadership of the Hizmet movement and its role in global Islamic discourse, especially in light of ongoing tensions with the Turkish government.
The news of Gülen's death has elicited mixed reactions internationally. While some view it as the end of a divisive figure, others mourn the loss of a visionary leader. The Turkish government continues to regard the Hizmet movement with suspicion and hostility, reflecting ongoing challenges in Turkey's domestic and international politics. How Gülen's absence will affect the movement and its interactions with global and Turkish state entities remains a critical question for observers and stakeholders.
Fethullah Gülen's death marks a significant moment in the history of Turkey and its diaspora. As a figure who was both revered and reviled, his legacy is complex and multifaceted. The future of the Hizmet movement and its role in international affairs, particularly in relation to Turkey, will be closely watched as it navigates a post-Gülen era.
"This organization has been a threat rarely seen in the history of our nation." - Hakan Fidan