KPMG, a global accounting firm, has distanced itself from the Sydney writers’ festival after Palestinian Australian academic Randa Abdel-Fattah was announced as a speaker. The company requested that its name be removed from the festival's website where it was previously listed as a corporate partner. The spokesperson for KPMG clarified that their role with the festival was as an auditor, and they do not consider themselves a partner in the event. This marks a shift from previous years when they agreed to be called a partner.

The decision has raised questions about the influence of external pressures, as the spokesperson noted that KPMG received calls expressing concern over Abdel-Fattah's participation. While the spokesperson did not directly link these calls to the company's decision, the implication is clear: the involvement of Abdel-Fattah, who is known for her activism regarding Palestinian rights, may have prompted stakeholders to voice their apprehensions to KPMG.

The Sydney writers’ festival has expressed disappointment regarding KPMG's request, emphasizing the importance of diverse voices at the festival. Abdel-Fattah's inclusion is part of a broader discussion on the representation of marginalized communities in literature and public discourse, and KPMG's withdrawal highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding these topics.