Arrest of the opposition leader: reasons driving Erdoğan to make a bold political move

On March 19, 2025, the arrest of opposition leader Ekrem Imamoglu provoked a large-scale wave of protests across Turkey. Hundreds of citizens participated in street demonstrations in Istanbul, Ankara, and other major cities.

The protest movement lasted until March 29, gradually transforming into an economic boycott of companies associated with pro-government structures.

Over 2,000 people were detained in different regions of the country during this period. As of early April 2025, protest activity has decreased, although social tensions remain high.

Turkey's current domestic political context presents President Recep Tayyip Erdogan with a complex system of challenges.