In Turkey, protests have erupted for a seventh consecutive night, following the arrest of Istanbul’s Mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, on corruption charges. Imamoglu, a prominent political figure and one of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s main rivals, was arrested last Wednesday, sparking widespread unrest. More than 1,400 people, including students, journalists, and lawyers, have been detained during the protests, which have been criticized by rights groups and the United Nations for the use of excessive force by police.
Imamoglu, who claims the charges against him are politically motivated, has garnered significant support from opposition groups. The protests have been a call for solidarity with Imamoglu and to demand his release. President Erdogan has urged for patience, describing the protests as attempts to create chaos. He warned protesters that their actions would lead to a “dead end.”
On Tuesday, thousands of students in Istanbul took part in marches, chanting “government, resign!” and waving flags, though they were heavily monitored by riot police. Despite the authorities’ efforts to maintain order by banning protests and closing some roads, protests have continued across the country.
Turkey’s main opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), has announced that Tuesday’s rally in Istanbul will be the last of their nightly vigils. However, they are planning a mass rally on Saturday, demanding early elections and transparent trials for those arrested. The protests are seen by many as a reflection of broader political discontent in Turkey, not just about Imamoglu’s arrest but about the state of democracy and governance in the country.
Meanwhile, journalists covering the protests, including AFP photographer Yasin Akgül, have been arrested. Akgül’s detention has drawn international condemnation, including from AFP, which called for his release, emphasizing that he was merely doing his job as a journalist.
Imamoglu’s arrest is also seen as part of a larger political struggle as Erdogan’s rule nears its expiration in 2028. If convicted of any charges, Imamoglu could be barred from running for president, though his candidacy remains intact unless convicted. Erdogan, who has been in power for 22 years, may seek an early election or attempt to change the constitution to extend his rule.
The situation continues to develop, with the protests showing no signs of abating and drawing attention to the political and judicial challenges facing Turkey.