Istanbul, March 21, 2025 – Ekrem Imamoglu, the mayor of Istanbul, is set to appear before a prosecutor and judge on Saturday, sparking widespread anger and fresh protests across Turkey.
The Turkish opposition has called on citizens to join a “night of democracy” rally, where earlier today approximately 10,000 people—predominantly young protesters—gathered to condemn Imamoglu’s arrest. The demonstration persists despite stern warnings from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who vowed not to yield to what he described as “street terrorism.”
Erdogan has accused the opposition of staging baseless theatrics, while Imamoglu, currently in pretrial detention, has used social media to rally his supporters, urging them to continue the fight and maintain solidarity.
According to a statement from the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, “Imamoglu and other suspects detained in connection with investigations into a criminal organization aimed at profit and supporting the PKK/KCK terrorist group are scheduled to be brought to the courthouse around 21:00 tomorrow (20:00 Greek time).” A decision on whether Imamoglu will remain in custody is expected to be made during this hearing.
Protests Escalate
Chanting slogans like “Do not stay silent, or soon it will be your turn,” demonstrators flooded the streets, some carrying placards reading “Don’t be afraid, the people are here” and “Justice, law, fairness.” The opposition’s call to action intensified as Ozgur Ozel, leader of the main opposition party, urged supporters to mobilize: “Wherever you are, leave your homes, join whoever you can, and march together.” Ozel is expected to address the crowd tonight following the end of the Ramadan fast.
In response to the growing unrest, authorities have shut down two bridges and several major roads leading to the Istanbul municipality, with closures expected to last 24 hours.
Political Tensions Rise
Imamoglu’s detention has fueled an already polarized political climate in Turkey. The mayor, a prominent figure in the opposition, is seen as a potential challenger to Erdogan in future elections. The government’s allegations linking him to the PKK/KCK—a designated terrorist organization—have been met with skepticism by his supporters, who view the charges as politically motivated.
As Turkey braces for Saturday’s court proceedings, the outcome of Imamoglu’s case could further galvanize the opposition and shape the nation’s political trajectory ahead of key electoral battles.
Related: Ekrem Imamoglu Profile
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