nuSep 28, 2026, 13:27

Turkish comedian Deniz Göktas sentenced to 19 months in prison for insulting Erdogan

Turkish comedian Deniz Göktas has been sentenced to nineteen months in prison for insulting President Erdogan and religious values during a televised comedy set. While he remains free pending an appeal, the case underscores the legal risks faced by critics of the government in Turkey.

Turkish comedian Deniz Göktas has been sentenced to nineteen months in prison for insulting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and religious values during a comedy performance. The 32-year-old performer, whose viral YouTube video garnered over nine million views, faced legal action after receiving numerous complaints. During his act, Göktas used satire to discuss sensitive political topics, including the Turkish education system and the imprisonment of opposition figures. Although convicted, he remains free while awaiting an appeal, as per Turkish legal procedure.

The trial reflects a broader trend of legal challenges against artists and critics of the government. Göktas, who famously used a chopping block as a prop to highlight the dangers of political satire, was acquitted of praising criminal activity. Following his arrest in July, supporters and opposition politicians gathered outside an Istanbul courthouse to protest the decision. The case highlights ongoing tensions regarding freedom of expression in the country, where insulting the president remains a punishable offense with a potential four-year prison term.

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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