Proposal for Bektashi state sparks controversy, conspiracy theories in Albania and beyond

The proposal to establish a Sovereign State of the Bektashi Order within Tirana has ignited a public debate in Albania, drawing sharp reactions from political figures, religious communities, and the media. Announced by Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and the global Bektashi leader Edmond Brahimaj, also known as Baba Mondi, the idea has led to a flurry of conspiracy theories and skepticism, particularly from Turkish media.

Why is it important: The creation of a Sovereign Bektashi State has led to discussions about Albania’s tradition of religious harmony and the political implications of granting sovereign status to a religious order. The proposal has also prompted critics to question the government’s priorities.

What are they saying: Democratic Party MP Jorida Tabaku voiced her opposition, stating that Albania has always been a beacon of peace, tolerance, and religious harmony. She noted that despite the country’s many challenges, religious coexistence has been a defining characteristic of Albania. “Our harmony between religions has been so strong that during World War II, no Jews were sent to concentration camps, and respect for this community has deep roots in our tradition,” Tabaku said.

Tabaku criticized the timing of the proposal, arguing that in a country facing a deep economic and social crisis, the government should focus on real solutions for poverty and youth emigration rather than engaging in “illusionary projects” that do not address the real needs of Albanians. “Our religious, ethnic, and racial harmony exists and does not need to be destabilized by anyone’s megalomaniac dreams,” she added.

Reactions from the Muslim Community of Albania: The Muslim Community of Albania (KMSH) also expressed concern over the discussions surrounding the creation of a Bektashi sovereign state. In a public statement, KMSH reaffirmed its claim as the sole representative of Islam in Albania and criticized the terminology used, such as “modern Islam” or “Albanian Islam,” which it argued misrepresents the true nature of the faith.

“KMSH is the umbrella institution representing all derivative Islamic orders, and this initiative could set a dangerous precedent for the country’s future,” the statement read. The community stressed that religious harmony in Albania has been built collectively and should not be monopolized or threatened by individual initiatives. KMSH also highlighted that any such projects must be consulted with all religious communities, noting the importance of the Interfaith Council of Albania, a respected institution that promotes dialogue among different faiths.

Conspiracy theories: The announcement of the proposed state has also drawn significant attention from world media which have mostly covered the idea as a curiosity. The situation is very different in the Turkish media coverage. The Bektashi Order traces its roots to the Ottoman Empire from which it was forced to relocate to Albania and Turkey tries hard to maintain its involvement in the internal affairs of Albania’s Muslim communities.

Besides reporting on the few details of the idea that have been announced publicly, Turkish media outlets have dived into speculations on the geopolitical implications of the proposal. They have drawn connections between Baba Mondi, Israel, and George Soros, suggesting that the Bektashi state could resemble a structure similar to FETO (the Fethullah Gülen’s organization), rather than a Vatican-style entity. “The links of the Bektashi dervish Edmond Brahimaj, known as ‘Baba Mondi,’ with Israel and Soros strengthen claims that the state will be established in a structure like FETO,” one article stated.

An article in “Sabah” also claimed that the proposed state is a project linked to Israel and George Soros, highlighting that Soros’s son has been active in Albania through the Open Society Foundation. The article also pointed out the recent visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Tirana, where he reportedly met with Baba Mondi.

“Sabah” even published photos of Baba Mondi with Albanian Rabbi Yoel Kaplan and an individual believed to be an Israeli military officer, suggesting close ties between the Bektashi leader and Israeli figures. These reports have fueled speculation about the motivations behind the proposed state and its potential impact on regional stability.