Statement on the Unjust Imprisonment of Ekrem İmamoğlu
We, the Socialist International, express our deep concern over the ongoing detention of İstanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu at the Silivri prison, a situation that strongly suggests the use of “lawfare” — the strategic manipulation of legal systems to silence political opposition. İmamoğlu’s prolonged pre-trial detention raises serious red flags about the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law in Türkiye.
Since his arrest in March, İmamoğlu has denied all charges, calling them politically motivated. His detention has seen numerous irregularities, which his legal team described as “unlawful.” The current proceedings risk being less about justice and more about neutralizing a leading political rival.
We join the calls made by international bodies, including the Council of Europe’s NGOs, for İmamoğlu’s immediate and unconditional release. We demand full respect for his rights to a fair defense, due process, and free political participation.
We urge the Turkish authorities to:
1. End the judicial harassment and pre-trial detention of İmamoğlu.
2. Ensure that any legal proceedings against him comply fully with international law and human-rights standards.
3. Restore trust in democratic institutions by protecting opposition voices, rather than silencing them.
This is not just a political case — it is a test for democracy in Türkiye.
_______________
