The president has condemned the widespread demonstrations sparked by the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu.
President Erdogan has strongly criticized the widespread protests that have erupted across Turkey following the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu on charges related to corruption and terrorism. He accused the protesters of engaging in vandalism and “street terrorism.”
Imamoglu, a prominent figure in the opposition CHP party and seen as a major political rival to Erdogan, was arrested on allegations of leading a criminal organization, accepting bribes, and supporting the PKK, which Turkey considers a terrorist organization.
The next presidential election, in which Imamoglu was widely expected to be a candidate, is officially scheduled for 2028. Given that Erdogan has already served two terms as president, he would need to call an early election or amend the constitution to run again.
In response to Imamoglu’s arrest, large crowds have protested, leading to clashes between demonstrators and police. Authorities also temporarily banned public gatherings and limited access to social media platforms.
On Friday, Erdogan addressed the protests, declaring that “Türkiye will not surrender to street terrorism,” and urged CHP leader Ozgur Ozel to “act responsibly and not to provoke youngsters.”
“The CHP is on the verge of losing its legitimacy as a party due to increasing corruption, problematic statements, and connections to fringe groups,” Erdogan cautioned.
On the same day, Ozel announced that he was calling on “tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, and millions to peacefully demonstrate, express our democratic reaction, and exercise our constitutional rights.”
According to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, authorities detained a total of 343 protesters across Turkey overnight during the unrest. He also emphasized that officials would not accept disruptions to public order or threats to national peace.
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