PREVIEW

Sixth Night of Protests in Turkey as Imamoglu’s Arrest Sparks Nationwide Outcry. Protests in Turkey entered their sixth night as President Erdogan blamed opposition parties for inciting what he called a "movement of violence.” The unrest began after Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, recently confirmed as the opposition’s 2028 presidential candidate, was arrested on corruption charges he says are politically motivated. Erdogan denied the accusations and called the protests "evil," accusing opposition leaders of making "vile" statements instead of responding to the charges. Despite the announcement from the CHP that demonstrations would end Tuesday, thousands gathered in Istanbul, where CHP leader Ozgur Ozel called the protests "an act of defiance against fascism.” So far, over 1,100 people have been arrested. Protesters, particularly young people, remain defiant, describing Erdogan’s government as authoritarian and demanding democracy and the release of detainees. Imamoglu’s charges include managing a criminal organisation, bribery, and data violations. His arrest does not disqualify him from running for president—unless convicted. The Ministry of Justice has rejected suggestions that Erdogan influenced the legal case, maintaining judicial independence. Imamoglu’s university degree has been revoked, which could impact his eligibility, as the Turkish constitution requires higher education to hold the presidency. Protesters compare the demonstrations to the 2013 Gezi Park movement, saying this is no longer just about one man but about defending Turkey’s democracy. Imamoglu’s wife called the arrest a "black stain on our democracy" and said the injustice had touched "every conscience.
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