Fethullah Gulen

If I were to say anything to people I may say people should vote for those who are respectful to democracy, rule of law, who get on well with people. ”

I probably will not live to see Turkey become an exemplary democracy, but I pray that the downward authoritarian drift can be stopped before it is too late. ”

My position on democracy is really clear. Any attempt to overthrow the country is a betrayal to our unity and is treason. ”

I would curse people who resort to coups against democracy, liberty, republic. ”

I think the United States is mindful of its reputation for its democracy and rule of law, and if they are willing to risk that reputation by extraditing me based on the request and claims made by Turkey, I would never say no. I would go willingly. ”

I've never sought to be known or recognized by people. ”

Avoiding the physical sciences due to the fear that they will lead to heresy is childish. ”

I have never imagined being or wished to be chosen as something important in the world. ”

In many places around the world, including Turkey until the 1950s, Muslims didn't have full freedom of religion. Even personal practice was not allowed, and they had to practice in secret. ”

I cannot accept concepts such as Gulenism or Gulenist. I was only a writer and an official preacher among people. I can have no direct influence on any person or activity. It is inconceivable that I can exert pressure on anybody. ”