Bektashi leader Ali Haydar Ercan dies

Ali Haydar Ercan, a Bektashi religious leader, has died.

Turkey’s Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi announced condolences in a message on social media.

Ercan held the title of Dedebaba, a senior leadership role in the Bektashi tradition.

The minister praised Ercan for carrying on the legacy of Hacı Bektaş Veli, associated with love, tolerance and brotherhood.

Çiftçi offered condolences to Ercan’s family, followers and the Alevi-Bektashi community.

The message focused on mourning and remembrance, and did not give details about the circumstances of Ercan’s death or funeral arrangements.