Three board members and the chair of the Adelaide Festival have resigned following the controversial decision to remove Palestinian Australian author Randa Abdel-Fattah from the 2026 writers' week program. The resignations occurred at an extraordinary board meeting on Saturday, with journalist Daniela Ritorto, businesswoman Donny Walford, and lawyer Nick Linke stepping down. Board chair Tracey Whiting confirmed her resignation on Sunday evening, effective immediately, stating it would allow the festival to refresh its leadership.
The crisis deepened as over 70 participants withdrew from next month's festival events in protest. The board's decision to disinvite Abdel-Fattah was announced last Thursday, citing concerns over cultural sensitivity following the Bondi tragedy. The board stated it did not suggest any connection between Abdel-Fattah and the incident but noted her past statements had informed their judgment.
Abdel-Fattah accused the board of 'blatant and shameless' anti-Palestinian racism and censorship. Her legal representatives, Sydney firm Marque, sent a letter to Whiting demanding disclosure of all statements that influenced the decision, citing a lack of prior consultation. The board has until 14 January to respond.
The departures raise concerns about the board's ability to reach a quorum under the Adelaide Festival Corporation Act 1998, which requires a minimum of two men and two women. With Linke's resignation, only one man remains on the board, potentially paralysing its legal authority to make decisions for the 2026 event.
