Greece appoints new Muftis for Komotini and Xanthi

The Greek government has officially appointed new Muftis for the cities of Komotini and Xanthi in Western Thrace, marking the end of a period of interim leadership. Following a presidential decree and a proposal from the Minister of Education, Religious Affairs, and Sports, Sofia Zacharaki, Bilal Kara Halil has been appointed as the Mufti of Komotini, and Şükrü Şerif Damadoğlu has been appointed as the Mufti of Xanthi.

The new appointees will serve five-year terms. The appointments were made in accordance with Law 4964/2022, aimed at modernizing the Muftiate system. Bilal Kara Halil previously served as the deputy Mufti of Xanthi and an interim Mufti in Didymoteicho, while Şükrü Şerif Damadoğlu previously served as a religious official on Kos island.

The decision has drawn criticism from representatives of the local Turkish minority, who have long advocated for the right to elect their own religious leaders rather than having them appointed by the state. This tension stems from a long-standing dual system in Western Thrace, where state-appointed Muftis operate alongside community-elected Muftis. Minority representatives cite historical treaties, including the Treaty of Lausanne, to support their demand for elective processes.