Law on new mosque in Athens passed with unanimous approval in principle
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After a 2-year-long public debate and reactions, a law (Act 3512/2006, FEK A' 264) on the new mosque in Athens was passed by the parliament with a unanimous approval in principle of the law and despite disagreements of the opposition parties concerning some provisions. Much criticism was addressed especially regarding the provisions about the administration of the mosque by Christian orthodox public officers and the designation of the imam by the Minister of Education and Religions upon their recommendation.
The location of Eleonas that proposed by the Greek Orthodox Church has been tabled in Parliament. Opposition MPs have stressed their concerns about disposing only one Mosque for all Muslim doctrines followers, while the proximity with a new soccer stadium would raise issues of security and fear of hooligan violence against Muslims.
According to the law draft tabled in parliament in mid October, the new mosque will be a private entity supervised by the Ministry of Education and religions and shall be run by a Council of Administration composed by various representatives: of Education and Finance ministries, of the Municipality of Athens, one University competent professor (on Islamic religion and/or culture), and 2 representatives of Muslims residing in Attica (wider Athens area). The representatives of Muslims residing in Attica will be selected by the Minister of Education from a list of 2-8 candidates proposed by two major associations of Muslims in Attica (each association may suggest up to 4 candidates). The Islamic leader (imam) will be proposed by the Mosque Administration Council and assigned by the Education Minister, therefore hired and paid by the state.
Source:
In.gr, 07.11.2006
