Turkey's opposition leader vows protests will continue 'in every city'

The head of Turkey's main opposition party spoke to the BBC. He stated that protests will continue "in every city." This will happen until early presidential elections are called or jailed mayor Ekrem Imamoglu is released.

Ozgur Ozel, chairman of the Republican People's Party (CHP), announced a large demonstration this Saturday in Istanbul. This event will kick off the party's campaign for Imamoglu as president in 2028.

"In every city we go to, we will have the biggest rallies," Ozel declared. He believes support for Imamoglu and democracy will strengthen the protests. Ozel spoke at his party headquarters in Istanbul, where staff and visitors were busy.

Since Imamoglu's arrest a week ago, massive crowds have taken to the streets. These protests are the largest seen in over a decade.

Alongside these demonstrations, there have been mass arrests. More than 1,400 people have been detained, including seven journalists covering the events.

Ekrem Imamoglu was confirmed as CHP's candidate for Turkey's 2028 presidential election on Monday, despite being in custody.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the protests as "street terrorism." He accused protesters of attacking police and damaging property. Erdogan claimed that the opposition's "show" would eventually fade away.

Ozel recently visited Silivri Prison, where Imamoglu is held. He reported that Imamoglu is in solitary confinement but is doing well and has not faced mistreatment.

Ozel described the corruption case against Imamoglu as a "scam designed to discredit him." He cited allegations about land purchases years ago as an example of this scam. Ozel explained that a low purchase price was just a deposit for the land.

Imamoglu denies all charges against him, including bribery and extortion. He claims his arrest was a coup attempt. Turkish officials maintain that their courts are independent; human rights organizations dispute this claim.

Ozel believes Imamoglu was arrested to prevent him from becoming president. Polls suggest he could win if he were not imprisoned.

"Erdogan has thrown a three-time election winner in jail," Ozel said. He criticized Erdogan for jailing someone who competes politically against him.

The opposition party thinks public response and international attention will influence whether Imamoglu stays imprisoned.

However, Ozel expressed feeling "abandoned" by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his party. He noted that while Europe reacts, Starmer has remained silent on this issue.

A few hours before Ozel’s comments, Starmer’s spokesman mentioned an ongoing legal process in Turkey. The UK expects Turkey to uphold the rule of law.

If Imamoglu is not released, CHP plans to continue fighting for presidency candidacy.

"If they keep Ekrem locked up," Ozel said, "any CHP member could run and win with 65% to 70%."