Ekrem İmamoğlu: Democratic processes in Turkey are under serious threat

Ekrem İmamoğlu, who is being held at the Marmara Prison in Silivri, stated in an article written for the British newspaper The Guardian that the pressure on the opposition in Turkey is increasing.

İmamoğlu recalled that he was elected mayor in Istanbul for the second time last year and described the difficulties he faced during this process.

The cancellation of his university diploma during his presidential candidacy process and the subsequent accusations he faced were among the issues İmamoğlu highlighted. Stating that he has been in prison for six months based on the testimonies of anonymous witnesses, İmamoğlu emphasized that opposition mayors across Turkey are facing similar pressures.

PRESSURES ON THE OPPOSITION

İmamoğlu argued that the government is targeting the CHP and attempting to neutralize the party's leadership. According to İmamoğlu, the cancellation of the Istanbul provincial congress and the removal of the provincial chair, followed by the appointment of a trustee, signify the end of political pluralism. He stated that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's efforts to reshape the opposition are dragging Turkey down an authoritarian path.

PUBLIC REACTION AND FUTURE PLANS

İmamoğlu stated that the public is no longer being deceived and is organizing peaceful protests. Saying that Turkey's 150-year-old democratic tradition is reflected in these protests, İmamoğlu announced that the CHP has prepared a roadmap for a democratic transition. He noted that this plan includes goals such as winning elections, stabilizing the economy, and ensuring judicial independence.

Finally, İmamoğlu emphasized that Turkey's struggle for democracy, freedom, and justice is important not only for Turkey but for the world as well. Expressing his belief that the will of the people will prevail, İmamoğlu said that democratic values can be revitalized through a strategic approach.

News Source: 12punto