Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu arrested on corruption charges

In Turkey, the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu on March 19, 2025, on charges of corruption and terrorism has prompted widespread protests. These demonstrations erupted following Imamoglu's detention by armed police officers, which many see as a politically motivated act intended to stifle his growing influence as a major rival to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Despite the government’s insistence on the independence of the judiciary, the timing of the arrest, just prior to a significant primary election for the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), has raised suspicions regarding its legitimacy. Throughout the past week, demonstrators congregated in large numbers, reflecting a significant backlash against the Turkish government's actions. More than two million people reportedly participated in the demonstrations, demanding Imamoglu's release and expressing dissatisfaction with the current political climate. According to reports, the CHP organized these rallies, highlighting the need for political reform and an end to what they regard as oppressive tactics employed by Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party. Reports indicate that approximately 1,900 individuals have been detained since the onset of protests related to Imamoglu’s arrest, with hundreds of those arrested being associated with the CHP. Some journalists have also faced detention while covering the protests. CHP leader Ozgur Ozel urged the need for an immediate release of Imamoglu and other political prisoners, claiming the actions taken by law enforcement reflect a broader pattern of intimidation aimed at suppressing dissent. Imamoglu's wife, Dilek Imamoglu, also spoke at the rallies, emphasizing the importance of holding the government accountable and ensuring that political figures can operate freely without fear of arrest. This intense political situation in Turkey has drawn both national and international attention, as citizens voice their demand for a fairer judicial process and an end to perceived political oppression. As these protests continue, the CHP is planning additional measures such as collecting signatures to foster support for Imamoglu’s release and demanding early elections. The dynamics of Turkey's political landscape are clearly in flux, with public support appearing to rally behind Imamoglu as a symbol of resistance against Erdogan’s administration.