Ali Erbaş's plan to keep his seat... It will create a sense of victimization

The term of Diyanet Affairs President Prof. Dr. Ali Erbaş will expire on September 17, 2025. Erbaş was brought to the head of the Diyanet in 2017 and was appointed for a second term in 2021. Having been in office for eight years, Erbaş has frequently come to the agenda during this period, especially with his rhetoric in sermons.

TWO TERMS COMPLETED

According to the legislation, Diyanet Affairs Presidents can serve for a maximum of two terms. With the transition to the Presidential Government System in 2018, terms of office were reduced to 4 years. In this context, Erbaş will have completed his second term.

According to behind-the-scenes information reported by Sözcü, it is alleged that Erbaş has particularly highlighted social sensitivities in his recent sermons, thereby creating a "perception of victimization." In Ankara political circles, it is commented that this strategy aims to pave the way for the extension of Erbaş's term.

Ali Erbaş, on the other hand, defended himself against the criticisms directed at him, arguing that he addresses religious topics in his sermons and is targeted for this reason. Erbaş defended himself with the words, "We are explaining religion, but we are being attacked."

The sermons published by the Diyanet over the last three weeks have caused widespread repercussions in society:

Clothing sermon: It was stated, "Wearing short clothes is forbidden (haram), and those who remain silent about this are also under sin." Subsequently, a young woman wearing short clothes was attacked in Istanbul.

Holiday sermon: The phrase, "Some holiday organizations have taken on a state far from the sensitivity of halal and haram, where carnal desires and wishes know no bounds," was used.

Inheritance sermon: By stating, "Depriving girls of inheritance is a violation of the rights of the servant. It is also a violation of the rights of the servant for girls not to be content with the right ordained by Allah," a controversial discourse regarding the distribution of inheritance was brought to the agenda.