I see that the authorities in Beyoglu decided to remove all the outdoor tables and chairs from the bars while people were sitting and enjoying their evening.
What a wonderful advertisement for Turkey, Istanbul and tolerance. There are conflicting reports, some say its because the chief Dictator (PM) wanted to walk through the streets and did not want to be offended by the sight of people drinking alcohol, some say its because Ramadan is coming and consumption of alcohol is blasphemous, although oif you are a non muslim or non believer why should other peoples mediaeval beliefs be forced on you, some say its because the chairs and tables made it difficult to walk on the streets. Whatever the real story it seems like another example of the heavy handed and unsubtle authoritarian streak that is latent in almost every Turkish male government official and possible evidence of the continuing creeping Isalmification of Turkey.
Personally I am waiting for the day when the AKP bubble bursts, maybe it just did with the Armed Forces Chief resigning....coup anyone??????????
No comments:
Post a Comment