Turkey's government has intensified its crackdown on the opposition and cultural figures following the arrest of Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu on corruption charges, sparking massive protests. İmamoğlu's detention has led to a widespread outcry, reflecting growing dissent against perceived authoritarianism. Artists and cultural leaders like Mahir Polat face severe consequences as the ruling AKP seeks to suppress dissent. The situation illustrates the ongoing clash between governmental control and the creative freedom that symbolizes resistance.
The AKP government has been trying for years to establish its own cultural hegemony. They fear symbols that are freely produced... Creative protests are their Achilles heel.
Mahir Polat has overseen the restoration of more than a dozen historical landmarks. Several of which have transformed into public art institutions.
İmamoğlu's detention sparked the largest protests in Turkey in over a decade, with citizens marching against what they perceive as a drift towards authoritarianism.
A broad clampdown on dissent has gathered force since last year, following the AKP's worst electoral setback, emphasizing the current cultural oppression in Turkey.
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