Massive Istanbul Protest Demands Imamoglu's Release and Early Elections

Hundreds of thousands gathered in the Maltepe district, denouncing Erdogan's government and calling for democratic reforms after the opposition leader's arrest.

Ekrem Imamoglu, Istanbul's mayor and a key opposition figure, remains in custody following his March 19 arrest on corruption and terrorism charges, widely viewed as politically motivated.
A massive rally in Istanbul's Maltepe district on March 29 drew hundreds of thousands, with opposition leaders claiming over two million participants and pledging continued resistance.
The CHP, Turkey's main opposition party, has intensified calls for early elections, asserting that the government has lost its legitimacy and warning of further democratic erosion.
Nearly 2,000 protesters, including journalists, have been detained since demonstrations began, with allegations of police brutality and harsh crackdowns on dissent.
International criticism of Erdogan's administration is growing, with concerns over press freedom, judicial independence, and the suppression of political opposition.