Prison sentence for Müjdat Gezen: Insulting Muslims case

The Istanbul Anatolian 59th Criminal Court of First Instance has sentenced theater artist Müjdat Gezen to 3 months and 22 days in prison for "publicly degrading a segment of the public based on social class, religion, sect, gender, or regional differences" due to remarks he made on a YouTube program.

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Prison sentence for Müjdat Gezen: Insulting Muslims case

According to ODA TV, the case was opened following remarks Gezen made in a program titled "We Attended Journalist Ayşenur Arslan's Class," which was broadcast in May 2024 on his YouTube channel, "Müjdat Gezen ile Bizim Ev."

During the trial, Gezen admitted that the remarks in question were his, but argued that he did not intend to degrade the religious values of the public or incite hatred and hostility. Recalling the Prophet Muhammad's hadith, "Paradise lies at the feet of mothers," Gezen stated that his words were intended to exalt women.

The court initially sentenced him to 6 months in prison under Article 216/2 of the Turkish Penal Code. Taking into account the defendant's past, social relations, and the potential effects of the sentence on his future, the court reduced the sentence to 5 months, and subsequently to 3 months and 22 days by applying a reduction for the simplified trial procedure.

The court also decided to defer the announcement of the verdict (HAGB), as Gezen had no prior convictions for intentional crimes.

Under the decision, Gezen will be kept under supervision for a period of 5 years.

News Source: 12punto