CHP Reacts to Promotion Restrictions on Istanbul Mayor
Yesterday, a group of CHP deputies protested this decision by hanging a banner reading “Free İmamoğlu” on the July 15 Martyrs’ Bridge (Bosphorus Bridge). This symbolic act came after authorities had previously prohibited the use of İmamoğlu’s images and promotional materials in public spaces.
CHP leader Özgür Özel described these restrictions as “unreasonable” in a statement and emphasized that his party would continue its protest actions. Özel noted that İmamoğlu is still recognized as the democratically elected Mayor of Istanbul and that no final court ruling has been issued against him.
Meanwhile, the restrictions on İmamoğlu were also discussed at the Socialist International meeting held in Istanbul. During the gathering, which was hosted by CHP and attended by representatives from left-wing and social democratic parties worldwide, the Turkish government’s recent stance faced criticism.
On the other hand, judicial authorities in Istanbul announced they had launched an investigation into the protest banners hung on the Bosphorus Bridge. CHP appears to be planning to respond to these restrictions through various means, including public events and seeking international support.
Ekrem İmamoğlu, who has served as Istanbul Mayor since 2019, remains one of the most popular figures among Turkey’s opposition. The recently imposed restrictions ahead of the upcoming local elections are being interpreted by political analysts within the context of political competition.
