In the heart of Berlin, a rally cast a spotlight on the plight of Ekrem Imamoglu, the jailed Istanbul mayor, whose arrest has ignited unprecedented unrest in Turkey. Organisers claimed around 1,000 demonstrators filled the streets, while police estimated the crowd at approximately 400. Many attendees donned masks of Imamoglu and brandished signs proclaiming, “We are all Imamoglu,” passionately addressing Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s regime.
Retired tradesman Muharrem Dogan, 75 years young, lamented, “With the Erdogan government, Turkey is going in the wrong direction.” He hopes for a return to democracy and rule of law, indicating the fight against the regime as critical. Archaeology student Sebnem Turhan, aged 27, echoed this sentiment, stating her presence was a stand against the oppressive wave of mass incarcerations and violations of democratic rights gripping Turkey.
Imamoglu’s arrest on March 19, under corruption charges deemed baseless by supporters, has catalysed massive protests across Turkey, resulting in a stark governmental crackdown that has faced international outcry. Many view Imamoglu as a significant contender against Erdogan in future elections; intriguingly, he was appointed as the CHP party’s candidate for the 2028 elections on the very day he was imprisoned. Meanwhile, Germany, home to about three million people of Turkish descent, retains a complicated relationship with Erdogan, whose support among Turkish voters remains substantial despite the unfolding turmoil.
Hundreds gathered in Berlin to support jailed Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, whose arrest has triggered major protests in Turkey. Demonstrators called for democracy and condemned President Erdogan’s government, while Imamoglu is considered a significant challenger in upcoming elections. His arrest has led to widespread unrest and harsh governmental responses, facing international criticism.
The protests in Berlin highlight the growing international concern over Turkey’s political climate, particularly surrounding Ekrem Imamoglu’s unjust imprisonment. The rally represents a united stand for democracy and human rights, reflecting the sentiments of those both in Turkey and abroad. With upcoming electoral challenges on the horizon, Imamoglu emerges as a formidable figure against the current regime.
Original Source: www.khaleejtimes.com
