Nationwide Protests Intensify in Turkey Following Arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu

Nationwide Protests Erupt in Turkey Following Arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu

(TJV NEWS) Turkish authorities have detained 343 individuals during widespread protests that broke out overnight in multiple cities, including Istanbul and the capital, Ankara. The demonstrations were in response to the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, who was taken into custody on March 19 on allegations including terrorism and corruption. The Interior Ministry stated the arrests were made to maintain public order and warned that unrest would not be tolerated.

The protests mark the largest civil unrest in Turkey since the 2013 Gezi Park demonstrations. The opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), to which Imamoglu belongs, called the arrests politically motivated and urged supporters to protest peacefully. “There is a great anger. People are spontaneously taking to the streets,” said CHP lawmaker Yuksel Taskin. Many see the movement as fueled by growing discontent across social, economic, and political lines.

Imamoglu, considered a strong rival to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, had been expected to enter the CHP presidential primary on March 23 ahead of the 2028 elections. His arrest followed the annulment of his university diploma, rendering him ineligible to run for office under Turkish law.

According to the Istanbul Chief Prosecutor’s Office, the mayor faces charges including running and belonging to a criminal organization, bribery, fraud, and aiding the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which is designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union. He is accused of collaborating with the group through an urban political initiative during last year’s local elections.

Protests have continued into their third day, with dramatic footage showing demonstrators clashing with police using tear gas, water cannons, and pepper spray. Social media platforms are under increased scrutiny, with the government detaining 37 users and imposing restrictions in response to what it calls “provocative posts.”

Observers and rights groups warn the unfolding events are becoming a flashpoint in a broader battle over democracy and civil liberties in Turkey.