In a striking display of solidarity, thousands of demonstrators marched near Istanbul’s town hall on Friday to support the city’s mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, who was arrested earlier this week. This protest, which marks the third consecutive day of rallies, comes despite stern warnings from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who labeled the protests as “street terror” and promised a governmental crackdown on dissent.

The protests erupted following Imamoglu's arrest on Wednesday, just days ahead of his anticipated announcement regarding a presidential bid for 2028. Eyewitness reports from the opposition indicate that over 300,000 people have participated in the demonstrations across Istanbul, as opposition leader Ozgur Ozel addressed the throngs of supporters outside City Hall, noting the impact of road and bridge closures that dispersed protesters to various locations throughout the city.

Imamoglu’s arrest was coupled with claims of corruption and alleged ties to terrorist organizations, drawing condemnation from political adversaries who perceive it as an attempt to undermine a key rival to Erdogan. The tensions intensified after Istanbul University invalidated Imamoglu’s diploma, disqualifying him from running for the presidency in accordance with Turkish electoral law.

In a speech on Friday, Erdogan justified the arrests, asserting that the operation targeted corruption, while accusing the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) of engaging in disruptive activities. “An anticorruption operation in Istanbul is being used as an excuse to stir unrest in our streets,” he said, vowing to prevent any disorder.

The response from the public has been significant, with protests expanding to over 32 provinces across Turkiye. Protesters have expressed broader concerns regarding systemic injustice and their right to elect representatives, underscoring their mistrust of the government’s judicial processes. “This movement is intended to send a message about systemic injustice in Turkish society,” noted Al Jazeera reporter Aksel Zaimovic.

The protest atmosphere was charged, with demonstrators chanting slogans and brandishing signs advocating for justice and accountability. Since the mobilizations began, media reports indicate that at least 88 protesters have been arrested, while authorities claim that over 54 individuals have been detained for online posts deemed incendiary.

Imamoglu first rose to prominence when he was elected mayor of Istanbul in March 2019, delivering what many view as a significant political upset to Erdogan’s dominant party, which had maintained control of the city for 25 years. As the political landscape in Turkiye continues to evolve, the ongoing demonstrations signify deep-rooted tensions and a growing appetite for change among the populace.