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Opposition Leader’s Call for Protests Sparks Tensions in Turkey
ANKARA (Reuters) – The Turkish government has voiced strong criticism against the main opposition leader’s appeal for mass protests regarding the contentious detention of Istanbul’s mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu. Demonstrations were reported nationwide, reflecting significant public dissent.
Imamoglu, a key political figure and rival to President Tayyip Erdogan, was taken into custody on Wednesday, facing serious allegations including corruption and supporting terrorist activities. The opposition has labeled this action a “coup attempt,” raising alarms both domestically and internationally, drawing sharp remarks from European political leaders.
In the aftermath of Imamoglu’s arrest, protests erupted in cities like Ankara, Izmir, and Istanbul. Clashes between some demonstrators and law enforcement occurred, particularly near universities and the municipal headquarters in Istanbul, despite authorities imposing a four-day ban on public gatherings. Many protesters encountered barricades set up by police, indicating a heightened security response to the unrest.
Ozgur Ozel, the head of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), addressed participants at a rally outside the Istanbul Municipality on Thursday, responding to Erdogan’s dismissal of the opposition’s claims as mere “theatrics.” Ozel conveyed a rallying cry for citizens to take to the streets, asserting that they would not be silenced.
“Hey Erdogan, you’re most scared of the streets. We are now on the streets, in squares. Continue to be afraid,” Ozel stated, emphasizing the resolve of the public amid escalating tensions.
Ozel further remarked on the implications of Imamoglu’s detention, stating, “While you keep the one we elected in custody, we will not sit at home.” His rhetoric underscored the growing frustration among opposition supporters regarding the treatment of their leaders.
The government’s Interior Minister, Ali Yerlikaya, alongside Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc, labeled Ozel’s protest calls as “irresponsible.” Tunc articulated that while the right to protest is fundamental, inciting gatherings during ongoing legal investigations is unacceptable, urging citizens to respond within the bounds of law.
The situation surrounding Imamoglu, a popular mayor in his second term, comes at a critical juncture as the CHP is expected to announce him as its candidate for the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for 2028. This occurs against a backdrop of what many view as a systematic crackdown on opposition figures—seen by critics as a politically motivated endeavor to compromise the CHP’s standing and suppress dissent. The government, however, denies these allegations, asserting a commitment to lawful governance.
Following the detention, calls among Imamoglu’s supporters for decisive action have increased. Ozel reassured that the CHP would engage in demonstrations while prioritizing public safety and order. Additionally, he pledged to resist any attempts by authorities to remove him or other CHP officials from their posts within the municipality.
Should Imamoglu be formally charged, the government could appoint an interim official to assume his duties, as he faces serious accusations tied to alleged support for the PKK, which Turkey classifies as a terrorist organization.
Intriguingly, Imamoglu’s arrest followed the controversial annulment of his university degree by Istanbul University—a decision that, if upheld, could impede his ability to run in future elections.
As the political landscape evolves ahead of the next presidential elections, Erdogan, reaching the end of his two-term presidency, faces a pivotal moment. To seek another term, he would either need to advance elections or amend the constitution.
Source
www.yahoo.com