A popular Turkish comedian, Deniz Goktas, has gone on trial at an Istanbul court facing charges of insulting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other offences during a stand-up performance in June. Goktas, 32, known for his dry wit and political satire, was arrested by police on July 3, a week after releasing a YouTube video of his show that was watched nearly nine million times. He has been held in pre-trial detention ever since.
Goktas is facing charges of insulting Erdogan and incitement to public hatred, with prosecutors later adding an extra charge of praising crime and criminals, according to the indictment. His arrest was the latest in a widening crackdown on anyone seen as critical of Turkey's Islamo-conservative government or its values. This has netted hundreds of politicians, artists, musicians, journalists and LGBTQ activists, among others.
Around 50 protesters with umbrellas gathered outside Istanbul's Caglayan courthouse under the watch of several dozen police, chanting: "Denis Goktas is not alone!" Several dozen police were also inside as a crowd of journalists and supporters waited to enter the courtroom where Goktas was expected to attend in person. Among them were several comedians from Istanbul's TuzBiber comedy club where Goktas reportedly began his career in 2019.
There were also observers from the Dutch embassy and the US consulate. The comedian is being held at Karatepe high-security prison, about 120 kilometres west of Istanbul, and he has been able to give an occasional post on X, mostly wry observations about life behind bars. "After 88 days, I'll be handcuffed for the first time and hear a car horn. I'm definitely not missing the handcuffs," he posted late Sunday, on the eve of his first day in court.
According to Turkish media, the Ankara-born comedian began his career at TuzBiber in Istanbul and has gone on to perform at venues across Europe and the US. If convicted on all charges, he could face up to a decade or more behind bars, Anka news agency reported, with other outlets giving a similar figure. The indictment did not clearly outline the sentence.
Goktas's arrest and trial have sparked international attention, with observers from diplomatic missions present in the courtroom. His supporters and fellow comedians have also turned up to show their solidarity. The case has raised concerns about freedom of expression and the Turkish government's crackdown on dissent.
The trial is ongoing, with Goktas expected to attend in person. His case has sparked a wider debate about the limits of free speech and the Turkish government's tolerance for criticism. Key points to watch include the court's decision on Goktas's charges and the potential implications for free expression in Turkey.
Key points
- The comedian faces up to a decade in prison if convicted on all charges.
- Goktas's arrest is part of a wider crackdown on critics of the Turkish government.
- The trial has sparked international attention and concerns about freedom of expression.
