Zülfü Livaneli Criticizes Erdoğan and Abdulhamid II at Komotini Event
Zülfü Livaneli delivered a sharp critique of Sultan Abdulhamid II and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan during the 3rd National Book Clubs Meeting held in Komotini. Labeling both figures as "dictators," Livaneli drew parallels between the political atmosphere of Abdulhamid’s reign and contemporary Türkiye under Erdoğan.
In his speech, Livaneli discussed themes from his novel, On the Tiger’s Back, emphasizing the fragility and fears of those in power. He portrayed Abdulhamid as a leader striving to preserve the empire while enforcing censorship and oppression. Livaneli argued that Erdoğan has sought to construct an ideological identity rooted in Abdulhamid’s image, using it as a counterpoint to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s legacy. He further stated that significant progress in women’s rights in Turkey only began during the Republican era, highlighting the limited advancements during Abdulhamid's rule.
The event featured discussions on literature and history, including a lecture by Professor Maria Dimassi and an analysis of Livaneli’s novel by Pataki Publications. Livaneli’s remarks resonated strongly with the Greek audience, garnering attention from participants. The two-day gathering brought together representatives from various Greek book clubs, fostering dialogue on literature, society, and history.
