Turkish Politics in Turmoil: Imamoglu's Social Media Blockade

Access to the social media account of jailed Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu has been blocked in Turkey following a legal demand. His arrest and detention have ignited widespread protests and increased his popularity, posing a significant challenge to President Erdogan in the upcoming election.

Access to the X account of imprisoned Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a leading opponent of President Tayyip Erdogan, has been restricted in Turkey under a legal mandate, according to a message posted on his social media account on Thursday.

The incarceration of Imamoglu on March 19 led to the country's largest protests in a decade. Detained on alleged corruption charges, which he refutes, Imamoglu has revived opposition narratives accusing the government of politicized and anti-democratic tactics.

Imamoglu's social media following of nearly 10 million shows his significant influence and increased public support, a factor that could challenge Erdogan's political dominance in the 2028 presidential election. Prominent lawyer Gonenc Gurkaynak is contesting the court's blocking decision on behalf of X.

(With inputs from agencies.)