Why it matters:
The arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu has sparked an unprecedented wave of protests across Turkey. Demonstrations have intensified, especially in Istanbul, plunging the city into a state of profound unrest.
The big picture:
Protests and sit-ins, primarily opposing the detention, conviction, and dismissal of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and 99 other municipal employees, began on March 19, and have continued despite bans on gatherings in many provinces.
What he's saying:
Ali Yerlikaya stated on Monday, the arrests occurred from March 19 to 23, with 123 police officers being reported injured during clashes with protestors.
Key points:
- The demonstrations are considered the largest anti-government movement in over a decade.
- Demonstrations have led to clashes between protestors and police forces particularly in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.
Go deeper:
Protests erupt in Turkey following arrest of Erdogan rival
Turkey arrests hundreds as mass protests follow detention of Erdogan’s rival
Turkish Republican People's Party Nominates Ekrem Imamoglu for Presidential Election
seyed mohammad kazemi