Turkey's Opposition Leader Declares Nationwide Protests Until Major Changes Are Made

Fri Apr 17 2026 20:43:06 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Ozgur Ozel emphasizes continued activism for early elections or the release of Ekrem Imamoglu from jail.

The leader of Turkey's opposition party, the CHP, vows to sustain protests across the nation until their demands are met, alleging political motives behind the ongoing detainment of Istanbul's mayor.

The head of Turkey's main opposition party, the Republican People's Party (CHP), has announced that protests will escalate across the country until either early presidential elections are initiated, or released from prison is Ekrem Imamoglu, the jailed mayor of Istanbul. Ozgur Ozel declared that such protests will culminate in a significant demonstration scheduled for this Saturday in Istanbul, marking the start of the party's campaign for Imamoglu to become the next president in the 2028 elections.

"Our rallies will set records in every city we visit," Ozel promised, adding, "The public's faith in Ekrem Imamoglu and democracy will fuel the momentum of these protests." The mobilization comes in the wake of Imamoglu's arrest a week ago, which has led to some of the largest public demonstrations Turkey has witnessed in over a decade, with more than 1,400 individuals arrested, including journalists documenting the protests.

The imprisoned Imamoglu has been officially named the CHP's candidate for president, despite his ongoing detention. Meanwhile, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has criticized the protests, labeling them as "street terrorism" and accuses protesters of violence and vandalism. He believes that the fervor of the opposition will eventually diminish.

Following a visit to Imamoglu in Silivri Prison, where the mayor is reportedly being held in solitary confinement, Ozel stated, "He is in good spirits and has not suffered any mistreatment." Ozel denounced the criminal allegations against Imamoglu as baseless, asserting that they are intended solely to discredit him politically.

Imamoglu faces allegations including bribery and establishing a criminal organization; he maintains that his arrest represents an undue political assault. Ozel underscored that the aim behind the political maneuver is to thwart Imamoglu's presidential ambitions. With public and international reactions considered crucial, Ozel expressed disappointment at the lack of response from the UK Labour Party under Keir Starmer, signaling a sense of neglect from international allies.

As the CHP stands ready to evolve its leadership plans, Ozel warned, "If Ekrem Imamoglu remains incarcerated and his candidacy is obstructed, any CHP member could potentially run and secure 65% to 70% of the votes." The political landscape in Turkey continues to remain turbulent, with calls for change echoing through the streets as the campaign heats up.