Widespread protests have escalated in Turkey after the detention of Istanbul’s mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, a key opposition figure and potential challenger to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The protests have continued for a fourth night, with demonstrators confronting police as Imamoglu faces further questioning over allegations of corruption and ties to terror organizations. Imamoglu denies any wrongdoing, and many see his detention as politically driven, aimed at ousting him from the 2028 presidential race. Government officials, however, maintain that the legal actions are not politically motivated and that Turkey’s courts operate independently.

Protests have been met with a strong police presence, including the use of water cannons, tear gas, and pepper spray. President Erdogan has stated that the government will not tolerate street protests and accused the opposition of having links to corruption and extremist groups. Despite the violent clashes, many demonstrations have been largely peaceful, with thousands marching in various cities against the government. The Republican People’s Party plans to proceed with its presidential primary as scheduled, with Imamoglu expected to be nominated as its candidate.

Source: https://news.sky.com/story/fourth-night-of-protests-turkey-after-arrest-of-key-opposition-figure-and-challenger-to-president-erdogan-13333798