Protests Over İmamoğlu's Arrest Intensify as Opposition Expands Mobilization

Turkey's CHP escalates demonstrations and boycotts, with İmamoğlu remaining in custody and over 2,000 arrests reported in the third week of protests.

The arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu on March 19 has sparked the largest protests in Turkey since 2013, with millions demanding his release and democratic reforms.
The CHP, Turkey's main opposition party, has announced weekly rallies and expanded protests to additional provinces to sustain pressure on the government.
Over 2,000 people, including students and cultural figures, have been detained during the demonstrations, which continue despite government crackdowns and media restrictions.
Protests have gained international traction, with Turkish diaspora communities organizing solidarity events in cities like Augsburg, Germany.
İmamoğlu, recently nominated as the CHP's 2028 presidential candidate, remains in custody, and his legal status raises uncertainties about his candidacy.