Istanbul Mayor's Arrest Triggers Nationwide Protests and Global Criticism

Ekrem Imamoglu's detention on terrorism and corruption charges intensifies tensions in Turkey, with opposition mobilizing and police cracking down on dissent.

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a key opposition figure, was arrested on March 19 on charges of terrorism and corruption, days before his planned nomination as CHP's presidential candidate.
The arrest is widely seen as politically motivated, with critics accusing President Erdogan's government of targeting a prominent rival to consolidate power.
Mass protests have erupted across Turkey despite bans and police crackdowns involving tear gas, water cannons, and social media restrictions.
International leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and EU officials, have condemned the arrest, calling it a setback for democracy in Turkey.
The CHP has vowed to proceed with Imamoglu's nomination and organized symbolic voting and demonstrations to rally public support against Erdogan's government.