Protests Erupt in Istanbul as Authorities Crack Down Following İmamoğlu’s Arrest

Authorities in Turkey imposed a four-day ban on demonstrations and restricted access to several social media platforms to curb protests following the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. Despite these measures, thousands of demonstrators took to the streets on Thursday, rallying in front of City Hall, Istanbul’s police headquarters, and CHP's party offices in defiance of the ban.

Security forces blocked off key roads leading to the Vatan Security Department, where İmamoğlu and over 100 others—including several high-profile figures—were detained. The Republican People’s Party (CHP) leader Özgür Özel condemned the arrest, calling it a politically motivated attempt to eliminate opposition ahead of the upcoming elections.

Charges and Allegations

İmamoğlu faces charges related to corruption, extortion, and aiding the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), a group designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and other allies. His arrest follows Istanbul University’s decision to revoke his bachelor’s degree, a requirement for holding public office under Turkish law. Critics see this as part of a broader government crackdown on opposition figures.

"A Coup Attempt," CHP Leader Says

Özel accused President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of orchestrating a political purge, asserting that the government’s actions amount to an attack on democracy.

“They can resort to any kind of oppression. This is no longer just a political fight, but a battle for the country's very existence,” Özel declared at a press conference.

In response, Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç rejected allegations of political interference, emphasizing that the judiciary operates independently.

“Calling judicial investigations a ‘coup’ is misleading and dangerous. The judiciary does not take orders from anyone,” Tunç stated, dismissing claims that the case was linked to Erdoğan’s political ambitions.

Tensions Rise Ahead of Elections

The developments come amid mounting political tensions in Turkey, with Erdoğan facing increased opposition following local election losses last year. Opinion polls have consistently indicated that İmamoğlu could defeat Erdoğan in a presidential election, further fueling speculation that his arrest is a strategic move to sideline a key rival.

The protests are expected to continue despite government-imposed restrictions, as opposition supporters vow to fight for democracy in the face of what they call an authoritarian crackdown.