Turkish Ministry of Interior suspends detained mayor of duties

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
23 Mar 2025 19:33

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, considered President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's most prominent challenger in the upcoming 2028 presidential election, responded to his suspension by calling for nationwide civic engagement.

People cast their ballots in a Republican People's Party or (CHP) polling station during a symbolic election to show solidarity with Istanbul's Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu after he was arrested, in Istanbul, Turkey, Sunday, March 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Huseyin Aldemir)

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu has been removed from his post following his arrest on corruption charges, according to a statement issued Sunday by the Turkish Interior Ministry.

"Under Article 127 of the Constitution of Turkey, Paragraph 47 of the law on municipalities, Number 5393, Imamoglu has been temporarily suspended from his duties," the ministry said in an announcement shared on X.

The move comes as Imamoglu faces allegations of involvement with a network accused of corruption, bribery, and assisting terrorism. Although a court declined to approve a terrorism-related arrest request, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office plans to challenge that ruling. The final say now rests with the Constitutional Court, local media outlet Sabah reported.

More than 90 people are reportedly under investigation in connection to the case, including multiple senior officials from Istanbul's municipal administration who have already been taken into custody. Turkish broadcaster Halk TV noted that Imamoglu may file an appeal against the charges.

Imamoglu, considered President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's most prominent challenger in the upcoming 2028 presidential election, responded to his suspension by calling for nationwide civic engagement.

"I invite our nation to fight for their rights. This fight is crucial for the future of our nation and our children," he posted on X. "For the future of Turkiye, make sure to cast your vote today. Then join us in Istanbul's Sarachane and in the squares of democracy all across Turkiye to make your voice heard. Today is the day to claim responsibility and stand up for justice against those who usurp the will of the people."

The developments unfolded as the Republican People's Party (CHP), Turkey's main opposition party, held internal primaries on Sunday to finalize its presidential candidate ahead of a potential early election. Imamoglu remains the party's sole nominee.