Hundreds of thousands of protesters took to the streets in Istanbul to express their support for Ekrem Imamoglu, the city’s mayor, who was recently imprisoned on corruption charges widely believed to be politically motivated.
Thousands Rally in Istanbul to Support Jailed Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu
Thousands Rally in Istanbul to Support Jailed Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu
Pro-democracy demonstrators fill Istanbul’s streets amid escalating tensions between citizens and the government.
In a remarkable display of solidarity, hundreds of thousands of pro-democracy supporters flooded the streets of Istanbul this weekend, rallying in support of the city’s mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu. Imamoglu, seen as a critical opponent of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, was arrested last week on charges of corruption that he ardently denies. Critics argue that the arrest is part of a broader political crackdown on dissent.
The mobilization on Saturday was so immense that it extended from the primary protest area into a nearby park, showcasing a unified front against what many perceive as oppressive governance. During the rally, the chairman of the Republican People's Party (CHP), which Imamoglu represents, read a letter from the imprisoned mayor. In this message—sent from solitary confinement—Imamoglu declared, “I have no fear, you are behind me and by my side. I have no fear because the nation is united against the oppressor.”
His spirit was echoed by his wife, Dilek Imamoglu, who urged demonstrators, “We will keep fighting and fighting,” as they waved Turkey’s national flags and chanted “Rights, law, justice!”
Imamoglu, who has been mayor of Istanbul since 2019, clinched victory in the recent mayoral election and is poised as the CHP’s candidate for the presidential race set for 2028, making him a crucial figure in the potential unseating of Erdogan’s long-dominant Justice and Development Party. Erdogan has presided over Turkey for over two decades, first as prime minister and then as president since 2014. Following the 2028 elections, he will be unable to run for presidency again unless constitutional amendments are passed.
The recent protests for democracy have steadily gained momentum since Imamoglu’s arrest. While Saturday’s gathering remained peaceful, previous demonstrations were met with aggressive law enforcement tactics, including the use of tear gas and rubber bullets. Over 2,000 individuals have been detained, among whom were journalists, including BBC reporter Mark Lowen, who faced deportation after the government claimed he lacked proper accreditation.
Erdogan has labeled the protests as “street terrorism” and accused protesters of violence against police and public property. As Imamoglu’s trial approaches, concerns loom over the likelihood of a fair judicial process amid stated government assertions that his arrest is not politically motivated, emphasizing the independence of Turkish courts.
