Turkiye in Turmoil: The Clash Over Democracy and Power

Police in Turkiye's capital employed forceful tactics against demonstrators protesting the arrest of Istanbul's Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu. The protests, sparked by accusations of politically motivated charges, intensified when security forces clashed with students. Opposition figures have vowed to support the protests, warning of further mass mobilization if police provoke demonstrators again.

Protests erupted across Turkiye as police clashed with demonstrators demanding justice for Istanbul's Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, arrested on charges widely viewed as politically motivated. The use of pepper spray, plastic pellets, and water cannons by security forces signals renewed tensions in the country's largest anti-government protests in over a decade.

The unrest began after Imamoglu's arrest, a key rival to President Erdogan. Accused of corruption and supporting terrorism, Imamoglu's charges have been criticized for relying on questionable evidence. Despite government assertions of judicial independence, critics argue the case is baseless and fueled by secretive witnesses.

In Turkiye's capital, students from Middle East Technical University faced aggressive police action while attempting to make a press statement. Opposition figures, pledging solidarity with the protesters, warned authorities against further provocations. With thousands already detained, the demonstrations highlight the nation's deepening political crisis as calls for accountability and democratic freedoms rise.

(With inputs from agencies.)