Mabel Matiz Faces Court: 'Perperişan' Song Under Obscenity Accusation

Singer Mabel Matiz, known as Fatih Karaca, appeared in court facing charges of 'obscenity' due to the lyrics of his song 'Perperişan'. The song, which sparked significant controversy on social media, is accused of posing a danger to children. Karaca, who is being tried without detention, stated in his defense that he did not write the song with the alleged intent.

'I Did Not Write It With the Intent Alleged'

During the hearing, Fatih Karaca explained that he wrote the song 'Perperişan' about a year and a half ago. He mentioned that the song was featured on an album by a French group and that he was inspired by Folk Literature. Karaca argued that the lyrics were exaggerated on social media, stating, 'Children and youth are very important to me. Therefore, it is out of the question that I wrote it with such an intent. I do not consider this song to be obscene. This song is derived from folk songs.' He added that the phrase 'cici toy bebe' refers to an adult individual, and the word 'kuş' signifies 'fate' in folk literature, but it does not carry the implied alternative meanings.

'Heartbreaking' Response to Judge's Question

When the presiding judge asked Fatih Karaca if the song was written for a man, Karaca responded, 'I find this question sad and heartbreaking.' He added, 'If an arabesque singer sang my songs, you wouldn't ask the same question. I believe my songs can be sung by anyone for anyone, and I want to state that I hold this belief.' The defense attorneys for the defendant requested an acquittal, arguing that the legal elements of the alleged crime were not met.

Case Awaits Report and Postponed

In its interim decision, the court ruled to notify the Ministry of Family and Social Policies of the case, considering the possibility of harm. It was also decided that a report should be obtained from the Board for the Protection of Children from Obscene Publications regarding whether the song and its lyrics are obscene. The court postponed the hearing to address outstanding matters.

Allegations in the Indictment

The indictment prepared by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office stated that the lyrics of the song 'Perperişan' by the suspect Karaca are indirectly provocative of sexual desire, causing erotic associations with physical and spiritual metaphors. It was claimed that the song depicts sexual union and that these depictions and lyrics are easily understandable by everyone. The indictment further asserted that the publication of the song on social media, with the suspect's consent, without any age restrictions, poses a danger to public order and the protection of children. The indictment requests that suspect Fatih Karaca be sentenced to imprisonment for six months to three years for 'facilitating the publication of obscene materials.'