The recent arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu has ignited widespread protests across Turkiye and intensified debates about his potential candidacy for the presidency. As the nation grapples with political turbulence, many are questioning whether İmamoğlu can overcome these challenges to emerge as Turkiye’s next leader.
The Rise of İmamoğlu
Ekrem İmamoğlu’s political ascent began with his unexpected victory in the 2019 Istanbul mayoral election, ending decades of control by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s Justice and Development Party (AKP). His administration focused on enhancing infrastructure, social services, and cultural heritage, earning him a reputation as a “man of the people” and a unifying figure in a deeply polarized political landscape.
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Legal Challenges and Arrest
In March 2025, İmamoğlu was detained on charges including corruption and alleged ties to terrorist organizations—accusations he and his supporters vehemently deny, labeling them politically motivated. Imamoğlu was widely expected to run for president in 2028. But his imprisonment has changed that. Just days earlier, his university degree was cancelled. Without it, he is technically ineligible to run. This arrest led to mass protests, with millions rallying in his support, marking some of the largest anti-government demonstrations in over a decade.
Public Support and Opposition Response
The opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) swiftly condemned İmamoğlu’s arrest. CHP leader Özgür Özel initiated nationwide protests and launched a petition demanding İmamoğlu’s release and calling for early presidential elections. Despite his imprisonment, the CHP nominated İmamoğlu as their presidential candidate for the 2028 elections, underscoring his enduring popularity and significance within the party.
Government’s Stance
President Erdoğan and his administration maintain that the charges against İmamoğlu are legitimate and not politically driven. Erdoğan has characterized the protests as violent and accused the CHP of inciting unrest. He emphasized that the judiciary operates independently and will hold accountable those who act against the national will.
Implications for İmamoğlu’s Presidential Bid
The legal battles and imprisonment present significant obstacles to İmamoğlu’s presidential aspirations. Turkish law requires presidential candidates to hold a valid university degree—a credential İmamoğlu reportedly lost due to annulment, further complicating his eligibility.
Public Sentiment and Future Prospects
The massive public outcry following İmamoğlu’s arrest reflects widespread discontent with the current administration and a desire for political change. His ability to galvanize support across diverse demographics indicates a robust base that could be mobilized in future elections. However, the path to the presidency is fraught with legal and political hurdles that could impede his candidacy.
Conclusion: Can Ekrem İmamoğlu Become Turkiye’s Next President?
Ekrem İmamoğlu’s journey from Istanbul’s mayoral office to a potential presidential candidate encapsulates the complexities of Turkish politics. While his popularity and public support are undeniable, the legal challenges and political opposition he faces cast uncertainty over his presidential ambitions. Whether he can navigate these obstacles and ascend to Turkiye’s highest office remains a pivotal question in the nation’s evolving political narrative.
