The executive director of Adelaide Writers’ Week has described the current situation as a “complex and unprecedented moment” following the resignation of the event’s chair and three board members, along with the withdrawal of over 50 authors. This turmoil comes in the wake of the decision to cancel the appearance of Australian-Palestinian author Randa Abdel-Fattah.

The list of authors who have pulled out includes notable figures such as Pulitzer Prize-winning author Percival Everett, Booker Prize-shortlisted British writer Zadie Smith, and former Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis. Their decision to withdraw followed the cancellation of Abdel-Fattah’s participation, a move prompted by cultural sensitivities in the aftermath of the December 14 terrorist attack at Bondi Beach.

The board released a statement clarifying their decision: “We do not suggest that Dr. Randa Abdel-Fattah or her writings are connected to the Bondi tragedy. However, considering her past statements, we believe it would not be culturally sensitive to include her at this unprecedented time shortly after the Bondi incident.”

In response to this, a letter from Bradley raised concerns about the board’s reasoning, stating: “It seems the board’s decision to exclude Dr. Abdel-Fattah was based on her ‘past statements.’ For the sake of procedural fairness, please specify which statements were considered in making this decision. She deserves to know this information.”

South Australia’s Premier, Peter Malinauskas, has expressed his support for the board’s decision. He noted that while he shared his views with the board, he did not direct them to remove Abdel-Fattah from the event.

South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has publicly supported the board’s decision and said he offered his opinion to the board, but did not instruct them to remove her from the event.