Three board members resign from Adelaide festival as Randa Abdel-Fattah sends legal notice

The Guardian - World NewsEN 1 min read 100% complete by Kelly BurkeJanuary 11, 2026 at 07:31 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

The Adelaide Festival is experiencing a leadership crisis following the resignation of three board members: Daniela Ritorto, Donny Walford, and Nick Linke. These resignations stem from the board's decision to disinvite Palestinian Australian author Randa Abdel-Fattah from the 2026 writers' week program. The decision to exclude Abdel-Fattah has led to significant controversy. Over 70 participants withdrew from the writers' week in protest. Abdel-Fattah has reportedly sent a legal notice related to the situation.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Australia 40% writers’ week ×250% Adelaide ×260% Nick Linke 70% Daniela Ritorto 70% Donny Walford 70% Adelaide festival ×280% Randa Abdel-Fattah ×290%

Keywords

adelaide festival 100% board resignations 90% writers' week 80% randa abdel-fattah 70% palestinian australian author 60% leadership crisis 50% controversial decision 40%