Turkey's Opposition Is Energized: The Fire Is Already Lit'
Briefly

In Turkey, opposition to the government is gaining momentum following the arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu, the mayor of Istanbul and key rival of President Erdogan. The main opposition party is mobilizing supporters through rallies and boycotts of pro-government businesses. Students are actively participating by forming councils to organize protests and develop strategies for safety amidst police crackdowns. This protest wave is unprecedented in scale and marks a critical moment for Turkish politics, though concerns remain about its sustainability and potential impact on government policies.
Everybody in the forums and meetings says this is not only about Imamoglu. The fire is already lit. But it remains unclear to what extent the nascent protest movement can sustain its momentum.
At universities, students have formed councils to direct protests and spread the word, sharing tips for dealing with the riot police and tear gas.
Turkey's largest opposition party is organizing rallies, urging boycotts of pro-government businesses and standing by its presidential candidate even if he will have to campaign from jail.
The government's March 19 arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu has catalyzed the largest wave of political protest in Turkey in more than a decade.
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