Department of Research, Studies and International News 20-03-2025

In a dramatic turn of events, Turkish authorities arrested Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoğlu, a prominent opposition figure and key political rival of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The arrest, reported by state-run media on Wednesday, is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption and ties to terrorist organizations.

The detention of Imamoğlu, a popular leader within the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), has intensified political tensions in Turkey. Alongside his arrest, prosecutors issued warrants for 100 others, prompting authorities to shut down roads in Istanbul and impose a four-day ban on public demonstrations to deter protests.

A Political Earthquake

Shortly after news of his arrest broke, Imamoğlu released a video message on social media with the caption “A blow to the will of the nation.” In his statement, he condemned the government’s actions, vowing not to be intimidated.

“We are facing great tyranny, but I want you to know that I will not be discouraged,” he declared. CHP’s chairman, Özgür Özel, went further, labeling the arrest a political “coup” aimed at preventing the opposition from selecting its next presidential candidate.

“Currently, there is a power in place to prevent the nation from determining the next president,” Özel stated, accusing the government of interfering with the democratic process.

Questionable Timing and Legal Maneuvers

Imamoğlu’s arrest comes at a critical moment. The CHP is scheduled to hold primary elections on March 23, where he was widely expected to secure the party’s presidential nomination. The next general elections are officially set for 2028, but speculation about early elections has been growing.

Adding to the controversy, Istanbul University invalidated Imamoğlu’s degree just a day before his home was searched. The university claimed there were irregularities in his 1990 transfer from a private institution in northern Cyprus to its business administration faculty, effectively disqualifying him from running for president, as a university degree is a legal requirement for candidacy in Turkey.

Imamoğlu condemned the move, stating that the university lacked the authority to revoke his diploma and that the decision was politically motivated.

“The days when those who made this decision will be held accountable before history and justice are near. The march of our people, who are thirsty for justice, law, and democracy, cannot be stopped,” he asserted on social media. He further suggested that the decision was made under government pressure, raising serious concerns about judicial independence in Turkey.

A Recurring Target of Legal Challenges

This is not the first time Imamoğlu has faced legal trouble. In 2022, he was convicted of insulting members of Turkey’s Supreme Electoral Council in a case that could result in a political ban. He is currently appealing the verdict. Additionally, he faces multiple lawsuits, including allegations of attempting to influence a judicial expert investigating opposition-led municipalities. If found guilty, he could face prison time and further political restrictions.

Political analysts argue that these legal challenges are part of a broader strategy by Erdoğan’s government to sideline strong opposition figures ahead of future elections. Wolfango Piccoli, an expert at the Teneo political risk advisory firm, noted that the move to annul Imamoğlu’s diploma suggests the government fears losing a fair electoral contest.

“The decision to revoke Imamoğlu’s diploma goes beyond merely undermining a fair electoral race by removing the strongest opponent,” Piccoli stated. “It reflects the boldness and power to dictate what is real and what is not by controlling the state apparatus.”

Imamoğlu’s political career has been marked by resilience. He first gained national attention in 2019 when he won Istanbul’s mayoral race, dealing a historic blow to Erdoğan’s Justice and Development Party (AKP), which had controlled the city for 25 years. After AKP contested the election results, a re-run was ordered, but Imamoğlu emerged victorious once again, solidifying his status as a major political contender.

In last year’s local elections, he successfully retained his seat, as CHP made significant gains against Erdoğan’s ruling party. His growing influence and popularity have positioned him as a formidable challenger in the national political arena.

The Future of Turkey’s Political Landscape

Imamoğlu’s arrest and the controversy surrounding his diploma revocation have ignited debates about the state of democracy and rule of law in Turkey. The opposition sees these actions as an attempt to manipulate the political landscape and eliminate key rivals. Meanwhile, international observers are closely monitoring the developments, with concerns rising over the fairness of Turkey’s electoral process.

As protests begin to stir and tensions mount, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Imamoğlu’s political aspirations, and the opposition’s hopes for change, can withstand the growing pressure from the government. The unfolding situation may very well shape Turkey’s political future in the years ahead.