Arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ignites Nationwide Protests and Global Condemnation

Ekrem Imamoglu, a key opposition figure and Erdogan rival, remains in detention as accusations of political motives fuel unrest and economic turmoil in Turkey.

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu was arrested on corruption and terror-related charges just days before his expected nomination as the opposition's 2028 presidential candidate.
Protests have erupted across at least 32 provinces, with demonstrators defying government bans on gatherings and clashing with police in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.
The Turkish government has detained dozens of protesters and individuals accused of sharing 'provocative' online posts, while officials deny political motivations behind the arrest.
The Turkish lira and stock market have suffered significant losses, reflecting growing investor concerns over political instability and the rule of law.
International leaders, including those from the European Union, have criticized Imamoglu's detention as a threat to democracy and judicial independence in Turkey.