Erdogan Accuses Opposition of Trying to Block Istanbul Mayor Investigation

 The opposition, especially the CHP, claims the charges against Imamoglu are politically driven and undermine democratic principles.

Erdogan Accuses Opposition of Trying to Derail Istanbul Mayor Corruption Probe

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday accused the country’s main opposition party of attempting to obstruct a significant corruption investigation into jailed Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu.

Erdogan alleged that the Republican People's Party (CHP), which Imamoglu represents, is trying to undermine the probe by making political accusations and criticizing state institutions. He claimed their actions aim to block the path of justice.

“No matter what you do, you cannot obstruct the course of justice,” Erdogan said during a speech to officials of his ruling AK Party.

 “It is the judiciary’s duty, on behalf of the Turkish nation, to break those dirty hands,” he added, suggesting a vast network of corruption gripping Istanbul. “In time, the public will see just how far this network, which has entangled Istanbul like ivy, truly reaches.”

The CHP and other opposition figures reject the accusations, insisting the charges against Imamoglu are politically motivated and represent a threat to democracy. Imamoglu is widely viewed as one of Erdogan’s strongest potential challengers in a future presidential race.

The government has denied exerting any political pressure on the judiciary and accuses the opposition of reacting with panic to the unfolding investigation.

The arrest of Imamoglu has sparked widespread demonstrations across Turkey. Hundreds of thousands, including many university students, have taken to the streets in mostly peaceful protests. Authorities have detained nearly 2,000 people, with about 300 jailed pending trial.

The unrest has had significant economic repercussions. The Turkish lira fell to a record low amid the political turmoil, triggering a sell-off in Turkish assets, worsening corporate debt burdens, and pushing borrowing costs even higher.