A demonstration was held in front of the IMM building in Fatih regarding the electric minibuses, dubbed "azmanbus," that were put into service on the Princes' Islands by the IMM.
Gathering at Saraçhane Park, the group held a protest in front of the IMM building with the slogan, "There can be no azmanbus on the Islands."
The islanders carried signs reading, "Is this a rehearsal for the ruling power?", "It didn't turn out well at all," and "Do not urbanize the Islands," and chanted slogans against IMM Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Dolunay Baykul stated that they were disappointed with the IMM administration for reporting the islanders to the police for exercising their right to protest.
Stating that islanders have been summoned to give statements due to the "azmanbus protests," Baykul noted the following:
"Pedestrians who stood in front of the azmanbus were manhandled and detained by the police at the request of IETT. Islanders who exercised their peaceful, constitutional right to protest are still being summoned to the police station for intimidation purposes. Mr. Ekrem İmamoğlu; you can solve all the problems related to our islands together with us. The solutions you have produced and will produce by excluding the islanders will inevitably lead to new problems, tensions, and an irreparable loss of trust in you. In accordance with the understanding of participatory municipalism, hear our voice, comply with the laws, and immediately withdraw the azmanbuses that are contrary to the nature, texture, and culture of the Princes' Islands."
Following the press statement, the crowd dispersed while singing songs.
News Source: AA
