Turkish comedian Deniz Goktas has gone on trial for allegedly insulting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and committing other offences during a stand-up performance.
Goktas, 32, was arrested on July 3 after a video of his “Dead Sea” show went viral on YouTube, attracting about nine million views. He has spent 88 days in custody.
He faces charges including insulting Erdogan, inciting public hatred and praising crime and criminals. Turkish media reports cited in the article say he could face around 10 years in prison if convicted.
During Monday’s hearing in Istanbul, Goktas denied the charges and defended political satire as part of freedom of expression. He asked the court to acquit and release him.
About 50 protesters gathered outside the courthouse in support of the comedian, while fellow comedians and observers from the Dutch and US embassies attended the proceedings