Umit Ozdag, Turkey's Far-Right Leader, Arrested for Inciting Violence

Ümit Özdağ, the leader of Turkey's far-right Victory Party, was arrested on charges of inciting hatred and hostility, primarily due to his anti-refugee rhetoric on social media. His detention followed a speech where he allegedly insulted President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, leading to accusations that he incited anti-Syrian riots in Kayseri last year. The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's office cited 11 posts from Özdağ as evidence, claiming his statements contributed to social divisions and public unrest. Critics, including Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, condemned the arrest as political meddling in the judiciary and an example of governmental influence over legal proceedings. Özdağ's party has a history of promoting anti-immigrant sentiment, which has fueled tensions in Turkish society. His arrest has sparked demonstrations from supporters and opposition members alike, highlighting the contentious political climate in Turkey.