ISTANBUL: Violent clashes continue in Turkey as thousands protest the detention of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a major rival to President Erdogan.
Nationwide Unrest
Demonstrators took to the streets in Istanbul, Ankara, and other cities, demanding Imamoglu’s release from custody.
Security forces responded with tear gas and water cannons to disperse large crowds in multiple locations.
Social media videos and Turkish news outlets showed chaotic scenes as protesters clashed with police.
Authorities arrested Imamoglu on corruption and terrorism charges, issuing detention orders for about 100 associates.
Among the detainees was Murat Ongun, Imamoglu’s press adviser, according to Anadolu Agency.
Government Response
On Thursday, clashes left at least 16 police officers injured, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed.
Authorities detained at least 53 protesters, but the number of injured demonstrators remains unknown.
Opposition leader Ozgur Ozel of the Republican People’s Party (CHP) rallied supporters in Istanbul.
Speaking atop a bus, Ozel called on citizens to take to the streets in resistance.
He declared, “We will not stay home while our elected representative remains locked up.”
Defying Bans
Erdogan dismissed the protests as meaningless theatrics, insisting Turkey has more important matters to address.
Despite a four-day ban on street gatherings, thousands demonstrated outside the Istanbul municipality building.
Waving Turkish flags and chanting, protesters demanded justice and Imamoglu’s immediate release.
University students also led protests in Ankara and Izmir, where public gatherings were also prohibited.
Protests intensified, showing no signs of stopping despite crackdowns by security forces.
Political Future
Imamoglu won the Istanbul mayoral elections in 2019 and was reelected in 2024.
The next presidential election is set for 2028, but Erdogan might call early elections.
Analysts suggest early elections could help Erdogan bypass Turkey’s presidential term limits.
Imamoglu’s growing popularity makes him a serious threat to Erdogan’s political dominance.
His arrest is widely seen as a political move to weaken opposition forces ahead of potential elections.
Escalating Tensions
The protests reflect deep dissatisfaction with Erdogan’s government and its suppression of opposition voices.
International human rights organizations have condemned Turkey’s crackdown on opposition leaders.
The detentions have sparked global concern over democracy and political freedom in Turkey.
Many fear the situation will escalate further if Imamoglu remains in custody.
For now, Turkey’s political landscape remains tense, with protests showing no sign of fading.
