Following the death of FETÖ leader Fetullah Gülen, a leadership struggle is anticipated within the organization, which is estimated to control around $30 billion. According to security sources, Gülen passed away on October 20, but this information was concealed due to the ongoing power struggle over the organization’s financial assets. Gülen’s doctor confirmed the date of death as October 20, but the announcement was delayed for a day.
FETÖ leader Gülen died in the United States, where he had sought refuge after fleeing Turkey. Websites affiliated with the organization and his nephew announced his death, stating it occurred in the evening on October 20.
Panic erupted among the organization’s top management following Gülen’s death, particularly regarding whether or not to announce it publicly. Those close to him, who had been administering medication that worsened his health, concluded that they could not keep the news under wraps. Gülen had been in serious health condition and exhibited signs of mental instability.
It was revealed that Cevdet Türkyolu, known as “Tall Cevdet,” had provided Gülen with medication to maintain the appearance of health, ensuring that financial support to the organization continued. He even reportedly kidnapped Gülen from his Pennsylvania farm and took him to his son-in-law’s house to better control both him and the organization’s finances.
Discussions have begun regarding Gülen’s burial, including who will lead the prayers and who will attend the funeral. Türkyolu prefers a quick burial under his control, while senior members of the organization advocate for waiting for attendees from Europe. There are reports that Türkyolu may hold a mock funeral to avoid attending the actual one.
The organization has collectively decided to keep the burial site undisclosed. The funeral is planned to be a small, private affair, with the burial likely taking place in a forested area on Türkyolu’s son-in-law’s property, which is seen as a way to ensure the grave’s safety. However, there are concerns about Türkyolu potentially missing the funeral, which could worry other factions within the organization.
The scale of the organization’s wealth has created tension among its upper echelons, with various leaders vying for control of the funds. Most of the money is currently controlled by Türkyolu, who has wielded power since Gülen’s health declined. He uses these financial resources to maintain control over his factions.
Other leaders in the organization are aware of Türkyolu’s financial grip and are expressing discontent. Abdullah Aymaz, who oversees the organization’s European operations, is actively trying to diminish Türkyolu’s influence alongside Mustafa Özcan, who manages its U.S. interests. Aymaz has threatened to sever ties with the organization’s U.S. side if necessary.
Fierce power struggles, including potential assassinations, are expected among those seeking to maintain control. Allies of Aymaz within the organization include Mustafa Yeşil, Ali Ursavaş, Barbaros Kocakurt, Talip Büyük, Bilal Karaduman, and İsmail Cingöz. In contrast, Cevdet Türkyolu and Mustafa Özcan have the support of figures such as former Zaman newspaper Editor-in-Chief Ekrem Dumanlı, İsmet Aksoy, Adem Kalaç, Naci Tosun, and Muhammed Çetin.
This internal division is likely to lead to a split between European and U.S. factions within the organization, with activities in African countries remaining under European influence and those in Asian countries falling under U.S. control.
