A Turkish comedian, Deniz Goktas, goes on trial in Istanbul on Monday over allegations that he insulted President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during a stand-up performance in June, along with other offences. Multiple outlets report the case is being heard by a court in Istanbul.
DW reports that prosecutors accuse Goktas not only of “insulting” Erdogan, but also of “praising” crime and criminals, and “inciting hatred and hostility” through jokes related to Islam. The outlet notes that Turkey is constitutionally secular and that, at least in principle, free speech is recognised.
Other reports focus more narrowly on the core charge involving alleged insults to Erdogan during the show, without detailing the broader set of accusations. Al-Monitor also describes the trial in similar terms, stating he is accused of insulting Erdogan during the stand-up performance.
