Istanbul’s ousted mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, addressed supporters in a message from detention on March 24, urging calm and unity while reaffirming his commitment to democracy.
Imamoglu, a prominent opposition figure from the Republican People’s Party (CHP), released the message from Silivri Prison following his arrest on corruption and terrorism-related charges. His detention on March 19 and subsequent removal from office have sparked widespread protests across Turkey.
In his statement, Imamoglu said a “democratic revolution” had taken place with the selection of the CHP’s presidential candidate on March 23. He claimed the process left “a handful of wicked people” in despair and said their fear had grown.
“Let them be afraid,” Imamoglu said. “Because we, together with our nation, represent the alliance of Turkey. We stand for the noble values of the Republic of Turkey: democracy, the rule of law, equality, unity, and solidarity.”
Imamoglu pledged to continue working hard despite his imprisonment, saying his presence would be felt “beside students at their desks, with laborers in workshops, farmers in the fields, and children at play.”
He urged young people to stay away from conflict and called on security forces to treat protesters with kindness.
“Tonight, I want to see all of you with smiling faces. The nation is great,” he said.
The protests following Imamoglu‘s arrest have drawn thousands to Istanbul’s Saraçhane district and other cities, defying bans on public gatherings. The municipal council is set to vote on İmamoğlu’s successor on March 26.