Fethullah Gülen.Photo: Russian media
On 21 October 2024, Fethullah Gülen, a radical Islamic preacher and sworn opponent of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, died in Pennsylvania, USA, at the age of 83. His death caused a resonance both in Turkey and abroad, as Gülen had remained a key figure in the country’s political conflicts for decades, DW reported.
The Life Path of Fethullah Gülen
Fethullah Gülen was born on 27 April 1941 in Turkey. He received a degree in theology and became an active preacher. In 1999, due to the growing political tensions in Turkey, Gülen emigrated to the United States, where he settled in Pennsylvania. His decision to leave his homeland was the result of criticism from the Turkish government and accusations of posing a threat to national security.
The Hizmet movement
Gülen became the founder of the Hizmet movement, which focuses on education, tolerance and intercultural dialogue. The movement gained popularity in Turkey and abroad, establishing numerous schools, universities and charities. At the peak of its popularity, Hizmet actively supported the Erdogan government, but in 2013, a conflict arose between the two.
Breaking with Erdogan
After a corruption scandal hit the government in 2013, Gülen and Erdoğan finally broke off their relationship. This was the beginning of a long-lasting confrontation between them, which led to serious political consequences for Turkey. In 2016, after a coup attempt, the government accused Gülen of organising the coup, which led to his final conflict with Ankara.
The Death of Gülen: Reaction and Implications
The death of Fethullah Gülen came as a shock to many of his supporters and opponents. According to the Turkish media, he died in hospital, and this information was confirmed by his nephew Ebuseleme Gülen. His legacy is complex and multifaceted: for some, he remained a symbol of the struggle for freedom of speech, for others, a person responsible for political intrigue in the country.
A look at the Heritage
Gülen’s legacy evokes contradictory reactions. Some consider his ideas and activities important for the development of education and democratic values, while others see him as a threat to Turkey’s national security. The Hizmet movement continues to function, but is under pressure from the Turkish government to limit its influence.
The death of Fethullah Gülen marks the end of an important phase in the history of political conflicts in Turkey. His life and work reflect the complex political reality of a country in which the struggle for power and influence continues. Although Gülen will no longer be able to participate in the political process, his legacy will remain relevant for many generations to come.
