İmamoğlu, who was poised to be named the opposition’s presidential candidate for 2028, was taken into custody on Wednesday on graft and terrorism charges.
Opposition decries ‘coup attempt’
The detainment, condemned by critics as an effort to stifle dissent, sparked immediate demonstrations. İmamoğlu’s detention follows what opposition leaders claim is a months-long crackdown on government adversaries.
In the western city of İzmir, protesters were soaked by water cannons, while in Ankara, police fired tear gas and baton rounds. Addressing supporters outside Istanbul’s municipal building, main opposition CHP leader Özgür Özel accused Erdoğan’s government of fueling unrest.
“I didn’t fill the streets; you did,” he said.
Government crackdown on ‘irresponsible’ rhetoric
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya and Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç condemned Özel’s remarks.
“Calling people to the streets over a legal investigation is illegal and unacceptable,” Tunç posted on Twitter.
Authorities have detained more than 100 politicians, journalists, and businesspeople—along with 37 Twitter users—for allegedly “inciting public hatred” or promoting criminal acts.
(jh)
Source: PAP