The Attorney General of the Palestinian Authority decided on Wednesday to take off air, a Palestinian satire show for its strong criticism of Palestinian Authority leaders and figures.The show is called, “Watan ala Watar” and is broadcasted in the Palestine TV of the Palestinian Authority, and tackles controversial issues such as politics, corruption, nepotism and religion.
The Attorney General said the law allows him to stop the broadcast of the show if it contradicts the norms and the culture and utilizes “dirty language” especially against people who are well respected among the Palestinian people.
On his part, the chair of the Palestine TV and Radio Yasser Abed Rabbo said the show will stop, however, this will not be the end. Abed Rabbo warned against allowing such decisions to pass as it will set a precedent that negatively affect democracy and freedom of expression.
Abed Rabbo is a member of the executive committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and a former Minister of Information.
The show was also criticized by some PA officials who alleged that it ridicules some Palestinian figures who are seen as symbols of the Palestinian revolution and resistance.
