Fethullah Gulen, the Controversial Cleric Behind Turkey's Coup Attempt, Passes Away
Fethullah Gulen, the Turkish cleric at the center of one of Turkey’s most turbulent periods, has passed away at the age of 83. His death was confirmed by Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who labeled him as the leader of a "dark organization." Gulen, who lived in self-imposed exile in the United States since 1999, died after being admitted to a Pennsylvania hospital, according to Turkish media reports.
Often regarded as the mastermind behind the failed coup attempt on July 15, 2016, Gulen's influence in Turkey was profound, with his movement—known as Hizmet or "service"—boasting a vast network of schools, charities, and business ventures both domestically and globally. Initially allied with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Gulen and his followers were once seen as key partners in the ruling government. However, their relationship soured by 2013, leading to allegations that Gulen was orchestrating a "parallel state" within Turkey, a claim he consistently denied.
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The coup attempt itself was a chaotic night marked by violence, with soldiers attempting to seize control of Istanbul and Ankara. The night saw the deaths of 251 people and injuries to more than 2,200. Following the failed coup, a sweeping crackdown ensued, resulting in the arrest of thousands, including military personnel, government officials, and civil servants linked to Gulen. His movement was subsequently designated a terrorist organization by the Turkish government.
Gulen's legacy is a complex one. He promoted a version of Islam that emphasized education, altruism, and a commitment to societal service. His followers expanded into many sectors, including the military and government. However, the failed coup attempt marked a turning point that shattered any remnants of Gulen's support within Turkey, as the government blamed him for the violence and upheaval.
Despite living in exile, Gulen maintained a significant presence in Turkish society through his movement, which has been described as a cult by its detractors. Many Turks believe Gulen's actions led to significant national strife and polarization. The Turkish government has repeatedly sought his extradition from the U.S., but these requests were denied without sufficient evidence of his direct involvement in the coup.
In Turkey, reactions to Gulen's death have been mixed. While many, particularly those who suffered from the consequences of the coup attempt, express relief and satisfaction, others call for accountability and a fair trial for the leader who they believe was responsible for the deaths of innocent people. As Gulen's influence wanes, analysts suggest that his death might pave the way for a normalization of Turkish politics, which has been deeply scarred by the coup attempt and its aftermath.
As news of his passing spreads, people gather at memorials commemorating the victims of the coup, reflecting on a night that changed the course of Turkish history. For many, Gulen's death represents not just the end of a controversial figure but also a moment of potential healing for a nation grappling with its tumultuous past. Whether this event will lead to meaningful change in Turkish politics remains to be seen, but for now, it signifies a significant chapter coming to a close in the ongoing narrative of Turkey's complex political landscape.
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