Thousands Protest Erdogan Rival's Arrest Across Turkey

The recent arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a prominent opposition figure and potential presidential candidate for the CHP party, has ignited widespread protests across Turkey. Imamoglu, accused of corruption and terrorism-related charges, was detained just days before he was expected to be nominated for the presidential election in 2028. Demonstrations erupted in major cities, with protesters chanting anti-Erdogan slogans and calling for his resignation, despite a government-imposed ban on public gatherings. Clashes between police and protesters were reported, with authorities using pepper spray to disperse crowds. The arrest has drawn international condemnation, including from EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and is perceived by many as an attempt by President Erdogan to eliminate a key political rival. In response, Erdogan's government maintains the integrity of the judicial process, dismissing claims of political motivations behind the arrest.