Turkish Opposition Leader Promises Nationwide Protests Amid Ongoing Unrest

In response to the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, Turkey's opposition leader vows to hold protests in every city, intensifying their campaign for upcoming elections. The demonstrations have turned violent, leading to widespread clashes and numerous arrests. The opposition claims Imamoglu's imprisonment is a calculated move by President Erdogan to hinder his political rise.

In a bold declaration, the head of Turkey's primary opposition party has promised that protests will persist "in every city" until either early presidential elections are initiated or the imprisoned mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem Imamoglu, is set free. Ozgur Ozel, chairman of the Republican People's Party (CHP), expressed his determination during an interview with the BBC, stating that upcoming demonstrations would culminate in a major rally this Saturday in Istanbul, launching Imamoglu’s campaign for the 2028 presidential election.

"We will ensure the largest rallies in the history of those cities," Ozel affirmed. The masses have already filled the streets with their demands, showcasing the biggest turnouts seen in over a decade since Imamoglu's arrest just a week ago. Despite the peaceful nature of the protests, they have been met with severe responses, including the use of tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds, alongside over 1,400 arrests, involving Turkish journalists as well.

Imamoglu, who was designated as the CHP's presidential candidate while in custody, maintains his innocence against charged offenses, which include establishing a criminal organization and corruption. His supporters argue that the case against him is a ploy devised to undermine his potential candidacy for president. Ozel stated after visiting Imamoglu in Silivri Prison that his condition is satisfactory and he has not been mistreated. The CHP believes that the broader Turkish society’s reaction, alongside the international community's responses, will significantly impact Imamoglu’s fate.

President Erdogan has denounced the protests as "street terrorism," accusing demonstrators of violence and disruption, suggesting that their fervor will eventually wane. Ozel dismisses these assertions, claiming that the motive behind Imamoglu's incarceration is to obstruct a credible political threat. He also expressed disappointment over the lack of support from the UK Labour Party, feeling marginalized as they call for international awareness and intervention.

Ozel forecasts that should Imamoglu remain imprisoned and barred from candidacy, any member of the CHP could still potentially win the presidency, achieving significant electoral support. The ongoing political situation in Turkey continues to unfold, with the opposition gearing up for further demonstrations to advocate for their leader and the re-establishment of democratic processes in the country.