The arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu has ignited mass protests across Turkey, unifying citizens against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government. The protests, driven by dissatisfaction with Turkey's dire economic crisis, including soaring inflation and stagnant wages, drew millions to the streets. Many participants expressed frustrations not only over Imamoglu's detention but also the broader political suppression they feel under Erdogan. As the opposition party CHP orchestrated the rallies, almost 2,000 arrests were reported, reflecting the intense backlash against perceived political repression amidst a struggling economy.
"We're fighting not just for Ekrem, but for Turkey," said Dilek Imamoglu, wife of the imprisoned opposition politician, with tears in her eyes. "We must give each other strength, we are a large family of 86 million people. Justice cannot be imprisoned."
An elderly protester expressed, "People from different social classes are taking to the streets. An important reason is also the empty pot on the kitchen stove."
The protests brought people of all ages to the streets as the economic situation has become unbearable, marked by 42% inflation and depreciation of the Turkish lira.
Demonstrators accused Erdogan of attempting to politically eliminate Imamoglu through the judiciary, with a call for the opposition party CHP rally that saw nearly 2,000 arrests.
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