Protesters return to Istanbul's streets for huge rally

In Istanbul, Turkey, a significant number of people gathered to demonstrate their support for the city's mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, who is currently imprisoned due to allegations of corruption. Many citizens believe that these charges are unfounded and that his arrest is politically motivated, primarily because he is a prominent challenger to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Following Imamoglu's arrest last week, widespread protests erupted across the city, as citizens sought to voice their discontent and advocate for their beliefs. On Saturday, the turnout was so immense that it overflowed from the designated protest area into a nearby park, illustrating the depth of public sentiment regarding their mayor's situation. The chairman of Imamoglu's political party, the Republican People's Party (CHP), addressed the crowd, reading a letter from Imamoglu, who is being held in solitary confinement. In this letter, Imamoglu expressed his unwavering resolve, stating, 'I have no fear, you are behind me and by my side. I have no fear because the nation is united. The nation is united against the oppressor. ' This powerful message resonated with many supporters, instilling a sense of hope and solidarity among the demonstrators. Dilek, Imamoglu's wife, also participated in the protest, rallying the crowd with her words: 'We will keep fighting and fighting. ' The demonstrators waved the red-and-white Turkish flags and chanted slogans such as 'Rights, law, justice! ' Imamoglu has held the position of Istanbul's mayor since 2019 and achieved a remarkable victory in the mayoral elections last year. He is widely regarded as a potential candidate for the presidential election scheduled for 2028, with many believing he possesses the capability to challenge Erdogan and his ruling Justice and Development Party at the polls. Erdogan has maintained a firm grip on power for over two decades, first serving as prime minister and then transitioning to the presidency in 2014. After 2028, he will be unable to run for president again unless he alters Turkey's constitution. Since Imamoglu's arrest, the country has witnessed a series of mass pro-democracy protests. While the demonstration on Saturday remained peaceful, earlier protests encountered aggressive police responses, including the use of tear gas and rubber bullets. Nearly 2,000 individuals have been arrested, including journalists who were merely covering the events. One journalist was deported after the government claimed he lacked the appropriate press credentials. President Erdogan has labeled the protests as 'street terrorism' and accused demonstrators of attacking law enforcement and vandalizing public property. Concerns have arisen regarding the fairness of Imamoglu's upcoming trial, with many fearing that he will not receive a just hearing in court. The government has denied any political motivations behind Imamoglu's arrest, asserting that the Turkish judiciary operates independently. Imamoglu, often seen in a suit and red tie, continues to engage with his supporters, conveying his determination to fight for their rights and freedoms.