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Turkish Opposition Vows to Sustain Protests Over Jailed Istanbul Mayor
ISTANBUL, Turkey – The leading opposition party in Turkey has declared its commitment to ongoing demonstrations across the nation, demanding either snap presidential elections or the release of Ekrem Imamoglu, the imprisoned mayor of Istanbul. This declaration comes amidst escalating political tensions and widespread public outcry over Imamoglu’s detention, marking a significant challenge to the current administration.
Nationwide Rallies Planned
Ozgur Ozel, chairman of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), Mayor Imamoglu’s party, informed the BBC of forthcoming nationwide protests, including a major rally slated for Istanbul this Saturday. Ozel stated that this event will serve as the launch of the party’s campaign to nominate Imamoglu in the presidential elections scheduled for 2028.
“In every city we visit, we will stage the largest gatherings in their history,” Ozel asserted.
“Belief in Ekrem Imamoglu and in democracy will amplify the scale and intensity of the protests,” he conveyed, speaking from CHP headquarters in Istanbul.
Mass Demonstrations and Arrests
Recent days have witnessed considerable public mobilisation, with the largest street demonstrations in over a decade erupting following Imamoglu’s arrest a week prior.
Parallel to these mass demonstrations, a wave of arrests has also taken place, with over 1,400 individuals detained, including seven Turkish journalists covering the unfolding protests.
President Erdogan’s Condemnation
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has denounced the protests, labeling them “street terrorism.” He accused demonstrators of acts of violence against police and vandalism of public property.
President Erdogan dismissed the opposition’s actions as a temporary “show” that would eventually subside.
Imamoglu’s Condition in Custody
Following a visit to Silivri Prison, the high-security facility outside Istanbul where Imamoglu is detained, Ozel relayed that the mayor is in “good condition” and has “not been mistreated.”
Ozel characterized the corruption charges against Imamoglu as a “scam intended to discredit him.”
He addressed specific allegations, such as claims that Imamoglu’s past land purchase at a low price constituted a bribe. “The reality was that the modest sum was simply a deposit for the property,” Ozel clarified.
Imamoglu’s Rejection of Charges
Imamoglu refutes all accusations, which include “establishing a criminal organisation, accepting bribes, extortion, and manipulating a public tender.”
He has described his detention as a coup. Conversely, Turkish officials maintain the independence of the judicial system, a claim strongly disputed by human rights organizations.
Political Motivations Behind Arrest
Ozel contended that Imamoglu’s arrest was solely aimed at preventing his potential presidential candidacy. Opinion polls suggest Imamoglu possesses the potential to win the presidency, provided he is not incarcerated.
“Erdogan has imprisoned a three-time election victor… in full view of the international community,” Ozel stated.
“He is suddenly jailing a political rival who is competing through legitimate means. It is akin to a rival interfering in a football match to prevent your victory,” he elaborated.
Seeking International and Domestic Support
The opposition party underscores the critical role of both Turkish public response and international pressure in determining Imamoglu’s continued imprisonment.
CHP’s Disappointment with UK Labour Party
Ozel expressed the CHP’s feeling of “abandonment” by UK Labour Party leader Keir Starmer and his party.
“While the rest of Europe is reacting, the English Labour Party and Starmer have remained silent. How can England, the cradle of democracy, and our brother party, Labour, remain silent? We are deeply disappointed.”
UK Labour Party’s Response
Subsequent to these remarks, a spokesperson for Starmer stated on Tuesday that there is an “ongoing domestic Turkish legal process” and that the UK “expects Turkey to uphold the rule of law.”
Future Presidential Candidacy
The CHP intends to persist in its pursuit of the presidency even if Imamoglu remains imprisoned.
“If they keep Ekrem Imamoglu incarcerated and obstruct his candidacy,” Ozel affirmed, “any CHP member can stand as a candidate and secure victory with 65% to 70% of the vote.”