Turkish authorities arrested Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, President Tayyip Erdogan’s key political rival, on charges of corruption and aiding a terrorist group. The opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) condemned the move as a “coup attempt” against their expected 2028 presidential candidate.
Imamoglu, a two-term mayor, leads Erdogan in some polls and was set to be officially named CHP’s candidate within days. His detention follows an escalating crackdown on opposition figures, widely seen as an effort to silence dissent ahead of the next election.
The Istanbul prosecutor’s office accused Imamoglu and six others of aiding the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which recently declared a ceasefire following jailed leader Abdullah Ocalan’s call for disarmament. Another investigation alleges corruption and bribery in municipal contracts.
Erdogan, in power for over two decades, has reached his two-term limit as president. If he seeks reelection, he must either call an early vote or amend the constitution. Imamoglu’s arrest came a day after Istanbul University annulled his degree, which could block him from running.
CHP leader Ozgur Ozel urged opposition groups to unite against what he called an attack on democracy, reaffirming Imamoglu’s candidacy. Meanwhile, Istanbul authorities banned public gatherings for four days as legal actions against opposition figures continue.
The political landscape in Turkey remains tense as Erdogan’s government faces scrutiny for its handling of opposition leaders and press freedom, raising concerns about the country’s democratic future.