Overview

• Ekrem Imamoglu, Istanbul's mayor and a key opposition figure, has been formally arrested on corruption charges and jailed pending trial.
• Protests have erupted in over 55 provinces, with demonstrators denouncing the arrest as a move to sideline Imamoglu from the 2028 presidential race.
• Authorities have detained 343 protesters and imposed bans on demonstrations, while police have used tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets to disperse crowds.
• Imamoglu, who denies all charges, has described his arrest as a 'coup' and accused the government of exploiting the judiciary to suppress opposition.
• The Republican People's Party (CHP) has proceeded with its primary vote to nominate Imamoglu as their presidential candidate, with symbolic voting organized nationwide to show support.