Hundreds of thousands of Turks flooded the streets of Istanbul on Saturday, protesting the jailing of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu—President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s main political rival. The massive demonstrations, the largest in over a decade, were fueled by accusations that Imamoglu’s detention is a politically motivated move to eliminate a key challenger ahead of Turkey’s 2028 presidential election.
A letter from Imamoglu was read aloud to thunderous applause, declaring, “I have no fear, you are behind me and by my side. The nation is united against the oppressor.” Imamoglu’s defiance resonated deeply with the crowd, who waved Turkish flags and held banners denouncing the government’s actions.
Since Imamoglu’s arrest on graft charges last week, protests have erupted nationwide. Although mostly peaceful, the unrest has led to nearly 2,000 detentions, with 260 protesters jailed pending trial. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the numbers, warning of continued crackdowns.
The Republican People’s Party (CHP), Turkey’s main opposition, rights groups, and international critics have condemned the charges against Imamoglu as a politically charged effort to undermine a strong challenger to Erdogan’s rule. The government denies interference, insisting the judiciary is independent.
At the “Freedom for Imamoglu” rally organized by the CHP, demonstrators passionately chanted, “If justice is silent, the people will speak.” Gunay Yildiz, a former municipal employee, declared, “I am not afraid, and I will continue to resist.” Retired teacher Bunyamin Turan added, “Throughout history, oppressed people have always won. The true owners of this country will prevail.”
CHP leader Ozgur Ozel demanded Imamoglu’s release and immediate elections, urging a boycott of pro-Erdogan media and businesses. The CHP’s call for early elections comes after the party endorsed Imamoglu for the 2028 presidential race in a primary vote last Sunday.
Imamoglu’s arrest has shaken Turkey’s economy, causing a sharp decline in financial markets and prompting the central bank to use reserves to stabilize the lira. Despite this, Erdogan dismissed the protests as a “show,” accusing the CHP of provoking unrest.
The government maintains the economic impact will be short-lived, but market confidence remains shaken. The central bank has vowed to take additional measures if needed.
With the 2028 presidential election looming, Turkey faces a turbulent political landscape. Imamoglu’s detention has ignited widespread anger and calls for change, as millions of Turks rally behind a leader seen as a viable alternative to Erdogan’s two-decade dominance. The coming weeks could prove pivotal for Turkey’s political future.
