Ekrem Imamoglu, the Mayor of Istanbul and a prominent rival to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has been detained as part of a broad corruption investigation. The arrest comes just before Imamoglu was set to be appointed as a presidential candidate for the upcoming elections, intensifying fears regarding political repression in Turkey.
Prosecutors allege that Imamoglu may be involved in leading a criminal organization, which has led to the detention of around one hundred individuals, including other politicians, journalists, and business figures. "The will of the people cannot be silenced," Imamoglu stated, vowing to continue fighting for democracy and fundamental rights.
A four-day restriction has been imposed on public meetings, demonstrations, and press releases in Istanbul, with reports of increased police activity. Imamoglu has criticized attempts to annul his university degree, deeming them politically motivated and a threat to academic independence. His party, the Republican People's Party (CHP), labeled the actions against him as a coup attempt, expressing deep concern over the erosion of democracy in Turkey under Erdogan's government.
Adding to the controversy, state-affiliated media has reported allegations of Imamoglu's involvement in extortion, fraud, and connections to the PKK, a designated terrorist organization in Turkey and several Western nations. This is not the first legal challenge faced by Imamoglu; in 2022, he was sentenced to over two years in prison for insulting state officials during a speech.
Following his arrest, the streets of Istanbul have encountered significant restrictions, with many roads closed and public transport affected. The state has justified these measures as necessary for maintaining public order and preventing unrest.
