Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu was taken into custody on Wednesday on charges of corruption and aiding a "terrorist" group, just days before he was expected to be nominated as the presidential candidate for the Republican People's Party (CHP). Imamoglu has denied all allegations. His detention has sparked protests across the country and is seen by many as a move to extend President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's more than two-decade rule. The CHP is considered the biggest political threat to Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party).
Imamoglu, a prominent political figure in Turkiye, was accused of being involved in corruption and terrorism. His company, Imamoglu Construction, Trade, and Industry, was seized by the Istanbul chief public prosecutor's office following financial crime investigation reports.
“He’s now in police custody and being accused of corruption and terrorism charges.” – Al Jazeera’s Sinem Koseoglu
Protests and Political Reactions
The detention of Imamoglu has led to widespread protests on streets and university campuses in various cities. Many supporters view his detention as a "coup attempt" against the next president, a sentiment echoed by CHP Chairman Ozgur Ozel. The arrests did not stop at Imamoglu; 37 individuals were detained for sharing what authorities described as "provocative" social media posts regarding the situation.
“Imamoglu won the mayoral elections [in Istanbul] twice – he won the last one with a huge margin of around 52 percent,” – Al Jazeera’s Sinem Koseoglu
The international community has also reacted to Imamoglu's detention. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described it as a "very bad sign" for Europe-Turkiye relations, while Russia maintained that it is a sovereign affair of Turkiye.
Legal and Political Implications
Imamoglu’s detention comes at a politically sensitive time, just ahead of his anticipated nomination as the CHP's presidential candidate. This move is perceived by many as an attempt to weaken the opposition and solidify Erdogan’s political dominance. Following Imamoglu's arrest, authorities imposed a four-day ban on gatherings, further restricting public demonstrations.
The legal proceedings against Imamoglu have significant implications for Turkiye's political landscape. If convicted, it could not only derail his political career but also alter the dynamics between the country's leading parties.
