A planned 15-million-franc grand mosque project in St. Gallen by the Albanian-Islamic community El-Hidaje has sparked political controversy and a public petition led by the SVP St. Gallen, according to local reports. The proposed building features an expansive glass dome, ornate prayer rooms, and an area spanning approximately 1,000 square meters designed to accommodate several hundred worshippers.
Although the development remains in an early phase without a formal building application submitted yet, political opposition has quickly materialized. During a media conference, the SVP St. Gallen launched a petition demanding the complete disclosure of all financial sources backing the multimillion-franc construction effort.
Political Opposition and Financing Concerns
SVP Kantonsrat Donat Kuratli warned that the structure carries a significance reaching far beyond normal religious practice, asserting that Swiss law, building regulations, and the interests of residents must take absolute precedence.
Echoing these concerns, Kantonsrat Sascha Schmid questioned whether domestic donations alone could cover the steep 15 million franc price tag. Schmid stated that foreign funding channels cannot be accepted, pointing directly to fears of outside financial ties.
Did You Know? The planned El-Hidaje grand mosque complex in St. Gallen is designed to cover around 1,000 square meters and feature an imposing glass dome alongside ornate prayer spaces.
Government Response and Community Position
Addressing a critical parliamentary motion submitted by the party, the St. Gallen cantonal government noted that the city views the building leadership as actively engaged in interreligious dialogue. According to authorities, the community routinely opens its doors during Ramadan to welcome neighbors, police, and local officials.
Furthermore, the El-Hidaje community issued a written statement asserting that local members are funding the project entirely. The organization maintains that no financial contributions originate from foreign Islamic states.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is planned for the St. Gallen site?
The Albanian-Islamic community El-Hidaje has proposed a grand mosque featuring an expansive glass dome, ornate prayer rooms, and a footprint of roughly 1,000 square meters to hold several hundred worshippers.
Why is the project facing political resistance?
The SVP St. Gallen has launched a petition and raised parliamentary concerns because of the estimated 15 million franc price tag, questioning whether the funds originate entirely from domestic sources.
What has the building leadership stated about the funding?
In a written statement, the El-Hidaje community affirmed that local members are covering all costs and that no money is flowing from Islamic states abroad.
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