Turkish fellowship threads careful path with leader across the Atlantic

"The ailing, 66-year-old Gulen — who's been described as a cross between missionary, mogul and freelance diplomat — says Turks can embrace Islam, Western values and nationalism. But he adds a twist that collides with Turkey's secular codes: Islamic culture and perspectives should be given equal weight and freedom of expression alongside Western-leaning views."

"The state turned its worries into an indictment, accusing Gulen of quietly plotting an Islamic groundswell by gaining followers in high places and "brainwashing" school children. In March 2003, Gulen was cleared under an amnesty but he had already left for medical treatment in the United States in 1999. He has no immediate plans to return, he's told Turkish media."

Times Argus