Ekrem Imamoglu’s Arrest Sparks Protests, 1,400+ Detained

Turkey has arrested over 1,400 protesters and multiple journalists following widespread demonstrations against Ekrem Imamoglu’s jailing. The mass detentions have sparked growing concerns about press freedom, government overreach, and the erosion of democracy under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s leadership.

Journalists Arrested While Covering Protests

On Tuesday, Turkish authorities detained seven journalists in Istanbul while they were reporting on the ongoing protests. Among them was AFP photojournalist Yasin Akgül, whose arrest has drawn international condemnation. The Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA), a free speech nonprofit, confirmed the arrests, warning that press freedom in Turkey is under serious threat.

AFP strongly criticized Yasin Akgül’s detention, calling it a “serious attack on media freedom” and demanding his immediate release. AFP chairman Fabrice Fries defended the journalist, stating, “Yasin Akgül was not part of the protest. As a journalist, he was covering one of the many demonstrations that have been taking place across the country.” He further noted that Yasin Akgül had captured 187 photographs documenting the protests, emphasizing the importance of his work.

Press freedom organizations, including Reporters Without Borders and Freedom House, have repeatedly accused the Turkish government of suppressing independent journalism. According to Reporters Without Borders, nearly 90% of national media in Turkey is now controlled by the government, limiting independent coverage and silencing dissenting voices.

Widespread Arrests and Government Response

Since last Wednesday, Turkish authorities have detained 1,418 protesters in Istanbul, Ankara, and other cities following six days of demonstrations. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya stated that 979 suspects remain in custody, while 478 will face court proceedings. He defended the crackdown, stating, “No concessions will be made to those who attempt to terrorize the streets, attack our national values, and threaten public order.”

The protests erupted after Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu’s arrest, a key opposition figure and a major political rival to Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Ekrem Imamoglu was detained on corruption charges just days before he was expected to be nominated as a candidate for the 2028 presidential elections. Critics argue that his arrest is politically motivated, aimed at eliminating a strong challenger to Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s rule. Erkem Imamoglu, in a defiant statement, said, “We will, hand in hand, uproot this black stain on our democracy. I am standing tall, I will not bow down.”

The government has responded by banning protests in Istanbul and closing key roads to prevent large gatherings. Despite these restrictions, opposition groups continue to rally support. Turkey’s main opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), has announced plans for a massive demonstration in Istanbul on Saturday. The rally is expected to draw thousands demanding justice for Ekrem Imamoglu and the release of detained protesters.

With Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s power significantly strengthened by a 2017 referendum that expanded his presidential authority, critics warn that Turkey is sliding further into authoritarianism. International observers continue to raise alarms over the state of democracy and human rights in the country. As protests grow, the government faces mounting pressure to justify its actions and address accusations of political suppression.