The arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu early today has sparked strong reactions from both his wife and prominent political figures across the region, with accusations of political oppression and attacks on democracy.

Imamoglu, a key political rival of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, was detained alongside over 100 others, including journalists and businessmen. He faces serious charges including corruption, rigging of tenders, aiding a terrorist group, and allegedly leading a criminal organization. This comes after the recent annulment of his university degree, which could disqualify him from running in Turkey’s upcoming presidential elections.

Imamoglu’s Wife Speaks Out Against “Dirty Information”

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu gestures as he speaks about police showing up at his door prior to his detention, in Istanbul, Turkey, March 19, 2025 in this screengrab taken from a handout video. Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality/Handout via REUTERS

Following the police operation at their home, Ekrem Imamoglu’s wife, Dilek spoke out, condemning what she described as the circulation of “dirty information” surrounding her husband’s arrest. In a statement made to Turkish media, she expressed frustration over what she perceived as a politically motivated move to undermine her husband’s political future.

She stated, “We are still a country of law, even on paper. First, they arrest them, then try to fabricate evidence. Many dirty pieces of information are circulating. Ekrem trusts himself with the people, and one day this nation will ask for an account. No one will remain silent in the face of such injustice.” She also revealed that their 13-year-old daughter was determined to continue her daily life despite the tension, stressing the emotional impact of the situation on their family.

Regarding the cancellation of Imamoglu’s university degree, his wife labeled the decision as “unlawful” and part of a broader scheme to prevent him from pursuing his political ambitions, particularly in the run-up to presidential elections.

Athens Mayor Expresses Solidarity

The arrest of Imamoglu also garnered support from international political figures, including the Mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas. Doukas voiced his concern with a post on X, in Greek, about the situation in Istanbul and stood in solidarity with Imamoglu, labeling the actions against him as an “attack on democracy.”

In a social media post, Doukas expressed his alarm at the arrest of Imamoglu, a leader who was elected by 54% of Istanbul’s population. He remarked, “We are following the developments in Istanbul with great concern. The arrest of the elected mayor, along with 100 of his associates, is the latest in a series of persecutions against our friend Ekrem.” He added that Imamoglu’s university degree annulment—which would disqualify him from running for president—was an attempt to prevent him from further challenging Erdogan’s leadership.