Turkey Faces Backlash Following Arrest of Istanbul Mayor and Social Media Crackdown

Following the detention of Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu in Istanbul, Turkish authorities have arrested dozens over alleged provocative social media posts, causing significant unrest and national outcry.

Authorities in Turkey are facing growing unrest after the arrest of Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, who was taken into custody on corruption and terrorism-related charges. Over 100 individuals, including Imamoglu, were detained, prompting tens of thousands of protesters to take to the streets in both Istanbul and Ankara. Imamoglu, a member of the secular Republican People's Party (CHP), is a major contender for the opposition in the forthcoming 2028 presidential elections, which has raised alarms among critics who denounce his arrest as a "political coup."

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya disclosed that 261 social media accounts had been flagged for "inciting hatred" and other offenses linked to the unrest. By Thursday morning, 37 individuals had reportedly been arrested, despite 18.6 million related posts circulating online since the incident on Wednesday. Protesters continued to gather at Istanbul's city hall, some demanding the resignation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and calling him a dictator. The ongoing demonstrations have faced stern police responses, including the use of tear gas.

In a move to control social dissent, Turkish authorities announced restrictions on social media platforms nationwide, including WhatsApp, according to the internet watchdog Netblocks. The arrests are part of a broader crackdown targeting various opposition figures, including politicians and journalists in recent months.

Local prosecutors have also begun investigating Imamoglu's personal financial affairs, which critics argue underscores the politically motivated nature of these actions. Imamoglu's success in securing a second term as mayor last year was a significant blow to Erdogan, as it marked the first time the ruling party suffered substantial electoral losses nationwide. As the CHP prepares to select Imamoglu as their presidential candidate for the upcoming elections, opposition groups are planning further demonstrations, intensifying the political climate in Turkey.