Presidency of Religious Affairs files criminal complaint against singer Volkan Konak

The Presidency of Religious Affairs has filed a criminal complaint against singer Volkan Konak regarding statements he made on social media directed at President Ali Erbaş and the institution.

In its statement, the Presidency of Religious Affairs asserted that the text shared by Konak was of a nature that denigrated the Islamic religion and believers, and constituted the crimes of insult and inciting the public to hatred and hostility.

In this context, it was stated that a criminal complaint was filed with the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office. It was requested that criminal proceedings be initiated against Konak on the grounds that his words exceeded the limits of freedom of expression and contained insults.

Volkan Konak had said, “The person occupying the seat of the Diyanet founded by Atatürk; performing a religion, which is offered to the service of humanity for free, for a salary, and internalizing the receipt of a salary from the taxes of those working in the entertainment and tourism sectors, only suits people like you who live in a merchant's reign. This evening, I am having a drink for you as well, to contribute to your salaries and allowances. Please accept it…”