Turkey Erupts in Nationwide Protests Over Imamoglu’s Arrest

For the third consecutive night, mass protests swept across Turkey, marking the largest demonstrations in over a decade following the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu—President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s most formidable political rival.

Mass Mobilization and Clashes with Police

Opposition leader Ozgur Ozel, head of the Republican People's Party (CHP), addressed a crowd of 300,000 in front of Istanbul City Hall, stating:

"This is not a CHP rally; people from all parties have come to show solidarity with Mayor Imamoglu and stand up for democracy."

As he spoke, clashes erupted on the sidelines of the protest, with riot police firing tear gas and rubber bullets. Similar confrontations were reported in Ankara and Izmir, where water cannons were also used to disperse demonstrators. Protesters chanted, "Don't stay silent or it will be you next," and carried signs reading "Don't be afraid, the people are here!"

Among the protesters was Necla, 56, who told AFP: "We did not take to the streets by force. We are here because of Erdogan. I don’t believe the allegations against Imamoglu—there is no man as honest as him."

Government Crackdown and Warnings

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced 97 arrests on Friday, while a protest ban was extended to Ankara and Izmir. Authorities also blocked key routes leading to City Hall, including Galata Bridge and Ataturk Bridge.

Erdogan dismissed the demonstrations, warning:

"Turkey will not surrender to street terror. The protests the CHP leader has called for are a dead end."

He also accused Ozel of "grave irresponsibility," raising speculation that the opposition leader could face legal action.

Political and Economic Fallout

Imamoglu’s arrest—just days before he was set to be named CHP’s official candidate for the 2028 presidential election—has further fueled tensions. Protests have spread to at least 40 of Turkey's 81 provinces, signaling widespread dissent.

Meanwhile, the BIST 100 stock index plunged nearly 8%, and the Turkish lira weakened further, reflecting market concerns over political instability.

Despite the turmoil, CHP has vowed to proceed with its primary election on Sunday, formally nominating Imamoglu. However, analysts suggest the government may attempt to block the vote to prevent a further wave of support for the detained mayor.

"If a large number of people show up and vote for Imamoglu, it will further legitimize him domestically and move things in a direction Erdogan doesn't want," said Gonul Tol of the Middle East Institute.