Protest Erupts in Istanbul Over Arrest of Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu
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Synopsis
The CHP organized a major rally in Istanbul supporting imprisoned Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, whose arrest sparked widespread protests across Turkey. CHP leader Ozgur Ozel announced plans for ongoing demonstrations, emphasizing the public's demand for justice and the release of Imamoglu amidst accusations of serious crimes.
Key Takeaways
- CHP rallies for jailed Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu.
- Protests mark largest in over a decade.
- Ozgur Ozel calls for nationwide demonstrations.
- Imamoglu faces serious legal accusations.
- Public outcry against the government’s actions.
Istanbul, March 29 (NationPress) The prominent opposition party in Turkey, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), held a significant rally in Istanbul on Saturday to show solidarity with the imprisoned Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu.
The arrest of Imamoglu, a fierce opponent of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and a potential candidate for the presidency, ignited the largest public demonstrations in Turkey in over a decade, according to various media outlets.
During the protest, participants displayed banners and posters of Imamoglu while chanting various slogans. CHP leader Ozgur Ozel informed international media, including Le Monde, of his intention to organize rallies across every city in Turkey, with more protests planned in Istanbul on the upcoming Wednesdays.
Ozel later shared via social media that the public would not stay silent and called for Imamoglu’s release.
“As we approach the holiday, I extend my gratitude to all citizens who gathered in the squares for justice and to uphold their will. This marks just the beginning. From this point onward, we will occupy the squares in a different city each weekend and in a district of Istanbul every Wednesday. This nation will not be quiet: Free my candidate, bring forth the ballot box!”, Ozel posted on X on Saturday.
Reports indicate that Turkish security forces have detained over 1,800 individuals, including students, journalists, and lawyers, during the ongoing protests.
Additionally, lawyer Ferhat Guzel reported that at least 511 students were arrested in Istanbul, many during pre-dawn raids. Of those detained, 275 are currently incarcerated, with estimates suggesting the actual number may be higher, according to media sources.
Previously, the state-run Anadolu news agency disclosed that Imamoglu is facing serious allegations, including bribery, corruption, qualified fraud, illegal acquisition of personal data for profit, and tampering with a tender.
Recently, tens of thousands of citizens across Turkey have participated in mostly peaceful protests against Imamoglu's detention.
The arrest of Imamoglu has provoked strong criticism from human rights organizations and garnered international backlash.
