Acclaimed Turkish pianist Say on trial for blasphemy

by Nicolas CHEVIRON | October 18, 2012

World-renowned Turkish pianist Fazil Say went on trial on Thursday on charges of insulting Islam and offending Muslims in a series of provocative comments on Twitter, in a case that could revive fears of the Islamisation of Turkish society.

"I reject all the accusations," a visibly upset Say told the Istanbul court, as about 100 supporters gathered outside.

The court adjourned the case to February 18 after rejecting his lawyers' request for an immediate acquittal.

"Fazil Say is not alone," declared one banner carried by rights activists, including artists and journalists, who gathered outside the courthouse in support of the self-declared atheist.

http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/afp/acclaimed-turkish-pianist-say-on-trial-for-blasphemy/551010