Erdogan Slams Gulen’s Death as “Dishonorable,” Vows to Pursue Gulenist Movement

Turkish President Condemns Exiled Cleric’s Death as “Dishonorable”

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has responded to the death of exiled cleric Fetullah Gulen, describing it as “dishonorable” in a televised address to the nation. Gulen, a former ally turned adversary of Erdogan, passed away in the United States where he had been living in self-imposed exile since 1999.

Erdogan, in his address, vowed to continue efforts to eliminate the Gulenist movement, comparing its founder to historical figures he deemed “demons in human form.” The President’s strong words underscore the deep-rooted animosity between the two men, whose alliance once helped propel Erdogan to power.

The relationship between Erdogan and Gulen soured following corruption allegations against the Turkish government in 2013. The rift deepened after the failed coup attempt in 2016, which Erdogan’s government blamed on Gulen and his followers. Gulen consistently denied any involvement in the coup, with his supporters maintaining his innocence.

Turkey has repeatedly demanded Gulen’s extradition from the United States, where he had been residing in Pennsylvania. However, U.S. officials have stated that more concrete evidence would be required to process such a request.

The aftermath of the coup attempt has had far-reaching consequences for Turkey’s political landscape. Erdogan’s government implemented a series of authoritarian measures, citing national security concerns. These actions included a widespread crackdown on individuals and organizations with alleged links to Gulen’s movement.

Thousands of people have been arrested, fired from their jobs, or had their assets seized in the years following the coup attempt. Gulen-linked schools, media outlets, and other institutions have been closed or taken over by the government. This crackdown has extended beyond Turkey’s borders, with Ankara pressuring other countries to take action against Gulen-affiliated organizations.

Throughout this period, Gulen maintained his criticism of the Turkish leadership from his compound in Pennsylvania. He consistently denied allegations of involvement in the coup attempt and condemned the actions taken against his followers.

In his recent statement, Erdogan framed Gulen’s death as an act of divine justice, reiterating his government’s commitment to continue its struggle against the Gulenist movement. The President’s words suggest that the passing of Gulen is unlikely to mark the end of this long-standing conflict in Turkish politics.

As Turkey grapples with the news of Gulen’s death, the repercussions of this complex relationship continue to shape the nation’s political discourse and international relations.