The prominent city of Istanbul finds itself in turmoil as Mayor
Ekrem İmamoğlu
has been detained on charges of corruption and terror funding. The main opposition party has labeled this event as a 'coup against our next president.' The arrest has ignited a wave of anti-establishment sentiment against Erdoğan's decades-long rule, triggering a wave of political arrests throughout the nation.
A two-time popular mayor, İmamoğlu was poised to be announced as the official presidential candidate for the Republican People’s Party (CHP) in the upcoming days. Recent surveys have shown İmamoğlu as a preferred leader over Erdoğan among Turks.
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Charges of Bribery and Tender Fraud
Imamoğlu, Erdoğan’s rival, faces investigations in Turkey on various charges, including leading a crime organization, bribery, and tender fraud. Meanwhile, Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç has issued stern warnings about linking İmamoğlu's arrest to Erdoğan or labeling it a 'coup,' threatening severe action against street protests.
In a handwritten letter shared on social media, the detained mayor expressed that the Turkish people would respond to these 'lies, conspiracies, and traps.' Prior to heading to the police station, he vowed not to succumb to pressure.
'Coup against the Next President'
Republican People’s Party leader Özgür Özel asserts their decision to announce İmamoğlu as the presidential candidate on Sunday remains unchanged, stating, “Turkey is facing a coup attempt against our next president. We are confronting a coup attempt.”
Also Read: ‘Interference in our internal matters is unacceptable,’ India rebuffs Turkish President Erdoğan's comments
Turkey’s Presidential Election Set for 2028
Turkey’s next presidential election is scheduled for 2028. However, Erdoğan has reached the limit of his two-term presidency. If he wishes to run again, he must either call early elections or amend the constitution.
The 71-year-old Erdoğan endured an embarrassing defeat in last year’s municipal elections when İmamoğlu's party claimed victories in Turkey’s major cities, including Erdoğan’s strongholds. Despite the opposition's allegations, Erdoğan’s regime has denied involvement, asserting the judiciary's independence.
