Publication Date: March 21, 2025
On March 19, 2025, Turkish authorities arrested Mr. Ekrem İmamoğlu, the duly elected Mayor of Istanbul, a central figure in Turkey’s political opposition, and a member of the Republican People’s Party (CHP). This event marked a concerning turning point in Turkey’s already tense political climate.
According to available information, Mr. İmamoğlu’s arrest took place at his residence in Istanbul, on charges of corruption, extortion, money laundering, and supporting terrorism, particularly in connection with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). Local and international sources have swiftly condemned this action as a new attempt to silence democratic opposition and weaken the autonomy of local institutions.
Mr. İmamoğlu, elected Mayor of Istanbul in 2019 with massive popular support, has become an emblematic figure of democratic resistance against the centralizing pressures of Turkey’s executive power. His arrest has sparked significant concern both in Turkey and internationally. Several human rights organizations, foreign political representatives, and European institutions have called for his immediate release and the guarantee of his fundamental rights.
The Zagros Center for Human Rights expresses its deep concern over this arbitrary detention and reminds that the imprisonment of legitimate elected officials gravely undermines the foundations of any democratic society. It is imperative that Turkish authorities respect their international commitments regarding human rights and ensure fair, transparent treatment in accordance with the rule of law.
We will continue to monitor the situation’s developments and reaffirm our solidarity with all elected officials, human rights defenders, and citizens who suffer persecution for their opinions or public functions.