Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Istanbul on Thursday following the arrest of the city’s Mayor, Ekrem İmamoğlu, in what opposition leaders and rights groups are calling a politically motivated crackdown.
According to France 24, İmamoğlu, a key opposition figure and rival to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, was detained along with 100 other individuals, including several high-ranking officials from his Republican People’s Party (CHP).
Allegations and Arrest Details
Authorities have accused İmamoğlu of corruption, extortion, fraud, and aiding the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK)—an outlawed organization designated as a terrorist group by Ankara, Washington, and other NATO allies.
His arrest follows a broader crackdown on opposition figures, raising concerns about Turkey’s democratic future ahead of upcoming elections.
Just a day before his detention, Istanbul University revoked İmamoğlu’s bachelor’s degree, a legal requirement for holding public office, further fueling speculation that the move was politically driven.
Protests and Government Crackdown
Despite a four-day protest ban, road closures, and social media restrictions, thousands gathered outside police headquarters, City Hall, and CHP offices to demonstrate against the mayor’s arrest.
Protesters chanted slogans condemning the move as “a blow to democracy.”
“This is not democracy. It’s a sham. The people do not deserve this,” a protester told France 24.
Riot police blocked off key roads leading to the Vatan Security Department, where İmamoğlu is being held.
Opposition Blasts Erdoğan Government
Speaking at a press conference, CHP leader Özgür Özel accused President Erdoğan of orchestrating İmamoğlu’s arrest out of fear of losing power.
“This is nothing short of a coup attempt. Erdoğan is afraid because he knows he cannot win in a fair election,” Özel said.
Turkish Government Defends Move
Turkey’s Justice Minister, Yilmaz Tunc, dismissed accusations of political interference, insisting that judicial authorities act independently.
“Characterizing independent judicial investigations as a coup attempt is extremely dangerous and incorrect,” Tunc stated.
International Condemnation
The arrest has drawn sharp criticism from the European Union. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reminded Turkey of its obligations as an EU candidate country.
“Turkey must uphold democratic values, especially the rights of elected officials,” von der Leyen said in Brussels.
She warned that Turkey’s EU accession prospects depend on its commitment to democratic norms and fundamental rights.
Growing Political Tensions in Turkey
İmamoğlu, who won Istanbul’s mayoral election twice despite government opposition, has been seen as a rising political star and a serious presidential contender against Erdoğan. His detention signals escalating tensions ahead of Turkey’s next elections, raising fears of further crackdowns on the opposition.
Conclusion
As Turkey faces increasing political uncertainty and international scrutiny, the arrest of Ekrem İmamoğlu has ignited a nationwide debate on democracy, rule of law, and Erdoğan’s tightening grip on power. With protesters defying government restrictions and the EU closely watching developments, the situation remains highly volatile.