Installed on Erbaş's office floor: Fingerprint and security 'measures' at the Diyanet

The Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) has reportedly begun sending all documents, including those for overseas assignments, for signature via a closed-circuit system following recent reports of increased waste. 

According to a report by Mustafa Bildircin from BirGün; security measures have also been increased at the Presidency's central campus in Bilkent, Ankara. Diyanet sources argued that the implementation has caused discomfort within the institution.

ACCESS FOR ADMINISTRATORS IS DIFFICULT

Following news reports on luxury expenditures that were attempted to be kept from the public, most notably the Audi A8 official vehicle, the Diyanet has increased security measures at its central campus. Entry to the office floor without permission has been made impossible.

According to the information obtained, a fingerprint system has been installed at the entrance to the office floor of Ali Erbaş, located in the A Block of the Presidency of Religious Affairs. It was stated that only individuals with registered fingerprints are permitted to pass onto the floor. On the other hand, it was noted that a special card-access system was also installed at the office entrance, and that even administrators must receive approval from the private office to enter the office floor.

Stating that the institution's name becoming associated with luxury and ostentation has caused great discomfort among the staff, Diyanet sources said, "Increasing internal security instead of ensuring transparency following the news reports is being heavily criticized. The President must, of course, be protected. However, this is the Presidency of Religious Affairs. Our greatest protection is our white turban. If that turban is stained, there will be nothing left to do after it has been wounded in the conscience, even if you install hundreds of fingerprint systems."

Stating that citizens were previously able to enter the office floor after passing through security checks, Diyanet personnel said, "The fingerprint system is very hurtful. Even the entry of administrators has been made very difficult. This situation has also caused serious discomfort among the administrators."

NUMBER OF SECURITY PERSONNEL INCREASED

Diyanet personnel criticize the fact that Ali Erbaş stands side-by-side with his security detail even while praying in the Arafat tent, which was set up to protect against the heat during the Hajj season that coincides with the summer months. The fact that Diyanet President Ali Erbaş has tripled the number of security personnel compared to the presidency of Mehmet Görmez is also drawing backlash. It was reported that the number of security guards for the President of the Diyanet, which was one during the term of Ali Bardakoğlu and two during the term of Mehmet Görmez, has risen to six during the term of Ali Erbaş.

News Source: 12punto