Social media regulation from the Diyanet: 'Staff should write praise-filled comments'

It is alleged that Diyanet Affairs President Ali Erbaş gave instructions to his social media team to "delete critical comments on social media and have staff write praise-filled comments."

According to a report by Mustafa Bildircin from Birgün, criticisms directed at Erbaş such as "he does not know Arabic" have also resonated within the presidency. According to Diyanet sources, it is stated that only the error-free parts of Erbaş's sermon videos are published.

SOCIAL MEDIA SHIFTS

While it has drawn attention that President Erbaş's social media accounts were closed to comments due to increasing criticism, it was claimed that social media teams regularly delete critical messages during night shifts. This situation has become a focus of criticism within the Diyanet community.

INCREASING TENSION WITHIN THE INSTITUTION

Diyanet sources state that the institution being associated with waste and luxury, along with the scandals that have occurred, has increased discomfort within the organization. Events such as the "appointment of the mufti son-in-law to Beykoz," the "Scandinavia trip," and "VIP Umrah tours" have further deepened this tension. News regarding the "Audi A8" also continues to create unrest within the institution.

Diyanet sources state that some personnel feel forced to hide that they work at the institution. Furthermore, it is mentioned that there are employees who avoid praying behind Ali Erbaş. It was alleged that negative news about the institution is sent only to Erbaş, and that vice presidents and general managers are not informed of these reports.