What’s driving protests in Turkey after Imamoglu's arrest? CHP Deputy Chairman explains

Amid mounting public discontent, Ilhan Özgal, Deputy Chairman of Turkey’s CHP, told Al Mayadeen that the city’s opposition mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, remains the public's candidate "no matter what the government does". His arrest has ignited nationwide protests, reflecting the Turkish public's broader frustrations over economic hardships, judicial control, and political repression. Özgal highlighted the dire economic conditions, with soaring housing costs and job scarcity for graduates, forcing many young Turks to seek opportunities abroad. He noted that protests aren’t limited to CHP supporters, as demonstrations have erupted even in Erdogan’s hometown, Rize, on the Black Sea. With no sign of government concessions, Özgal warned that the movement would persist unless demands for judicial independence, fair wealth distribution, and improved public services are addressed.