Protests Erupt as Turkish Court Weighs Terror Charges Against Istanbul Mayor Imamoglu

Turkish prosecutors have called for the imprisonment of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu and four aides on terrorism and corruption charges, sparking mass protests across the country. Imamoglu, a leading opposition figure and potential rival to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, was detained on Wednesday. He has firmly denied all accusations, labeling them as “unimaginable slanders.”

The court is expected to decide on Sunday whether Imamoglu will remain in custody. Under Turkish law, an arrest on terrorism charges could allow the government to appoint a trustee to replace him as mayor. Imamoglu’s Republican People’s Party (CHP) has condemned the move as politically motivated and urged supporters to protest peacefully.

Thousands gathered on Saturday outside Istanbul’s municipality building and courthouse, demanding Imamoglu’s release. Police deployed tear gas, pepper spray, and water cannons to disperse demonstrators, while protesters hurled firecrackers and objects. Clashes also erupted in Izmir and Ankara for the third consecutive night. Authorities confirmed the detention of 323 people during the nationwide unrest.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya vowed to prevent any threats to public order, while President Erdogan accused the opposition of attempting to provoke chaos. The government insists the judiciary operates independently.

Imamoglu, 54, who currently polls ahead of Erdogan, was expected to be named CHP’s presidential candidate in the coming days. Although Turkey’s next election is scheduled for 2028, Erdogan has reached his two-term limit unless he amends the constitution or calls for an early vote.

The escalating political tension, fueled by the high-profile case, is drawing both domestic and international attention as fears grow over Turkey’s democratic future. Imamoglu’s arrest could reshape the country's political landscape ahead of a possible early presidential election.