After the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu on March 19, 2025, Turkish police have clashed with protesters in demonstrations that have intensified across the country.
Imamoglu, a member of the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), was detained on allegations of corruption and supporting a banned political organization, charges he firmly denies.
Protests and Clashes
- National Rallies: Tens of thousands of people have protested Imamoglu's arrest in a number of Turkish cities, claiming the accusations are politically motivated. These rallies have been called the biggest wave of demonstrations in Turkey in more than ten years.
- Police Response: In response to the demonstrations, Turkish officials used water cannons pepper spray and tear gas to scatter protesters, demonstrators were pushed back by water cannons in Ankara, while riot police in Istanbul deployed percussion grenades and rubber bullets on protesters.
- Arrests and Detentions: According to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, 343 people were taken into custody on Friday night during the demonstrations, in addition more than 100 persons were arrested as part of the Imamoglu probe, including journalists, lawmakers and business leaders.
Government Actions.
- Protest Ban: The governor's office in Istanbul extended the ban on protests until March 26 and placed limitations on cars carrying people who might engage in illegal activity.
- Social Media Restrictions: There has been a notable lack of access to social media sites including X, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok.
- Erdogan's Response: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has accused the opposition of inciting chaos and attempting to create an atmosphere of tension. He asserted that relying on the streets instead of the judiciary to address issues is irresponsible and that "the days of going out into the streets...and threatening the national will are now behind us".
Imamoglu's Situation.
- Charges and Denial: Imamoglu is accused of bribery, money laundering, extortion, corruption, and aiding terrorism, specifically the Kurdistan Workers Party PKK, he claims that all of the accusations are "immoral and baseless" and has rejected them all.
- Revocation of Degree: Citing irregularities, Istanbul University revoked Imamoglu's degree, potentially disqualifying him from a presidential candidacy, supporters of Imamoglu think this move is politically motivated and intended to thwart his ambitions to become president.
- Appeal for Solidarity: Imamoglu called on Turkish citizens to support the demonstrations and fight for their rights in spite of his imprisonment, the will of the people cannot be silenced," he said, thankfully acknowledging his supporters.
Political Context
- Presidential Candidacy: Imamoglu is considered to be President Erdogan most formidable opponent and many see his imprisonment as an effort to disqualify a significant political opponent from the 2028 presidential contest.
- CHP Presidential Primary: Imamoglu was anticipated to receive a primary nomination as the leader of the opposition Republican People Party, according to CHP Chairman Ozgur Ozel, the primary will go forward as scheduled.
- Biggest Protests in a Decade: Since the 2013 Gezi Park protests these actions mark the biggest anti-government gatherings in Istanbul.
