Istanbul Erupts in Protest as Imamoglu Faces Trumped-up Charges
Istanbul — Istanbul’s mayor and leading opposition figure, Ekrem Imamoğlu, appeared in a kangaroo court on Saturday after enduring five hours of interrogation on corruption and terrorism charges.
The 53-year-old’s arrest earlier this week has ignited widespread protests across Turkey, with thousands taking to the streets to demand his release and denounce the government’s handling of political opponents.
Imamoglu, a member of the center-left Republican People’s Party (CHP), rose to national prominence after securing a surprise victory in Istanbul’s mayoral race in 2019, dealing a major blow to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). His win ended decades of AKP control in Turkey’s largest city and positioned him as a potential challenger to Erdoğan in future elections.
The charges against Imamoglu include allegations of misappropriating public funds and having ties to banned organizations — accusations he firmly denies. His legal team has argued that the charges are baseless and politically motivated, designed to weaken the opposition ahead of upcoming national elections.
“This is not about justice. It’s about silencing an elected leader who represents the will of millions of Istanbul’s citizens,” said Imamoglu’s lawyer, Murat Keleş, speaking to reporters outside the courthouse.
Meanwhile, Erdoğan’s supporters insist the charges are legitimate and unrelated to politics. AKP spokesperson Ömer Çelik stated, “No one is above the law. Corruption and links to terrorism must be investigated thoroughly, no matter who the accused is.”
The unfolding legal battle has drawn international attention.
The European Union, a key economic partner for Turkey, expressed concern over the case. “We are closely monitoring the situation. The independence of Turkey’s judiciary must be preserved,” said Peter Stano, a spokesperson for the EU’s foreign affairs office.
In Istanbul, demonstrations have grown in size and intensity since Imamoğlu’s detention. Protesters, waving Turkish flags and chanting his name, filled public squares and blocked major streets. Some held signs reading “Justice for Imamoglu” and “We won’t be silenced.”
“Our votes put him in office. We won’t let them take him away,” said 28-year-old student Ayşe Demir, standing among a crowd near Taksim Square. “This isn’t just about Imamoglu — it’s about democracy itself.”
The Turkish police have responded with force in several instances, using water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds. Local rights groups reported dozens of arrests, including prominent CHP members and civil society leaders.
Political analysts suggest the arrest may backfire on Erdoğan, galvanizing the opposition rather than weakening it.
“If the goal was to remove Imamoglu from the political stage, it might have the opposite effect,” said Dr. Sinan Ülgen, a political analyst and former diplomat. “This could unite and energize opposition voters who feel increasingly alienated by the government’s tactics.”
The timing of the charges also raises eyebrows.
Turkey faces a worsening economic crisis marked by soaring inflation, a depreciating lira, and rising unemployment. Critics argue that the government is using Imamoglu’s case to shift public attention away from economic grievances and consolidate power.
For Imamoglu, the stakes are high.
If convicted, he could face a lengthy prison sentence and be barred from holding public office — a scenario that would likely reshape Turkey’s political landscape.
Speaking briefly to reporters before his court appearance, Imamoğlu struck a defiant tone. “I am here today because I believe in justice and democracy,” he said. “No matter what happens, we will continue this fight — not just for me, but for everyone who believes in a free and fair Turkey.”
As night fell over Istanbul, crowds remained on the streets, chanting, clapping, and holding their ground. “We won’t stop,” said 64-year-old retiree Mehmet Yıldırım. “This is about our country’s future.”
The court has yet to announce a decision on whether Imamoğlu will be released, continue to be held, or face formal charges. One thing, however, remains certain: his case has already reshaped the political conversation in Turkey — and the outcome may determine more than just his future.
It may determine the future of Turkey’s opposition, democracy, and leadership itself.
Istanbul Mayor and Opposition Leader Imamoglu Faces Court (March 23, 2025)
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Tags: Turkey, Istanbul, Ekrem Imamoglu, protests, opposition, court, corruption charges, terrorism charges, Erdogan, democracy
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