TIRANA, July 13 /ATA/ Prime Minister Edi Rama, who referred to Bektashism as a national treasure of Albania, stressed the importance of taking all necessary measures to preserve it, warning that without such efforts, it faces extinction.
In an interview with British journalist and photojournalist Robert Hackman, who has produced a documentary on Bektashism in Albania, Prime Minister Rama stated that “Bektashism is a very unique order and a national treasure for us. Unlike other communities that are part of larger constellations and can rely on long chains of solidarity and support for educating new clergy or building their infrastructure, the Bektashis are the sole masters of their own fate and do not belong to any other constellation.”
“That’s why it’s so important to do everything possible to keep them alive—otherwise, they will face extinction. By granting them a special status, I’m confident it will help them generate better income and secure the place they deserve beyond the country’s borders,” said Rama.
When asked what an independent Bektashi state signifies for the Albanian people and for Europe, Rama described it as “a meaningful symbol, albeit modest in size. It consists of just a small plot of land, a few hectares that they already possess and where their center is located. For Albania, however, it represents a treasured part of the national heritage, and for the community, it stands as a safeguard ensuring their continued existence and protection from extinction.”
When asked whether other religious communities in Albania might feel favoured or discriminated against by this initiative, Rama responded, “There is no reason for that. This is not a competition between Albanian religious communities where one is favoured over another. The Bektashis are a community that relies solely on themselves, while Sunni Muslims, Orthodox Christians, and Catholics belong to much larger constellations and have reference points abroad, as well as many opportunities to educate their imams or priests. That’s why I see no reason for anyone to feel they are being treated unequally.”
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