Turkish authorities have seized a construction company partially owned by Ekrem İmamoğlu, the arrested Mayor of Istanbul, following allegations of corruption and support for terrorism. His arrest has prompted criticism from opposition parties, branding it a coup attempt. As he leads in polls, the political dynamics are significant, especially with the next presidential elections set for 2028.
The Istanbul Public Prosecutor’s Office has announced the seizure of a construction company partially owned by Ekrem İmamoğlu, the arrested Mayor of Istanbul. This action was taken following a recent court decision linked to ongoing investigations into financial crimes involving the Mayor.
Ekrem İmamoğlu was arrested on Wednesday on corruption charges and allegedly supporting a terrorist organization. His arrest has drawn significant criticism from the main opposition party, which characterizes it as a “coup attempt against the next president.”
A statement from the Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that the decision to seize “İmamoğlu Construction, Trade, and Industry” was based on an analysis of financial investigation reports, according to Reuters.
At age 54, İmamoğlu, representing the Republican People’s Party (CHP), had been leading in polls against current President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and was anticipated to be officially nominated for the presidency soon.
The next presidential election is slated for 2028, which poses a significant challenge for Erdoğan, as he has reached his two-term limit. To run again, Erdoğan must initiate early elections or amend the constitution.
Erdoğan experienced his most significant electoral setback last year, when the Republican People’s Party achieved a remarkable victory in Turkey’s major cities, successfully defeating the ruling AKP party in its historical strongholds during municipal elections.
In summary, the seizure of İmamoğlu’s company amidst accusations of corruption marks a pivotal moment in Turkish politics, fueling tensions between the opposition and the ruling party. İmamoğlu’s rising popularity and potential candidacy for the presidency, coupled with Erdoğan’s constitutional constraints, illustrate a fractured political landscape leading into the 2028 elections.
Original Source: www.jordannews.jo
