Ekrem İmamoğlu, the former Istanbul mayor, is poised to be the CHP’s presidential candidate for the 2028 elections, backed by substantial public support. Despite facing corruption allegations and recent arrest, he remains popular, with millions voting for him, including significant participation from non-party members. His candidacy is uncertain due to ongoing investigations and the revocation of his university degree, a requirement for running. Protests have erupted nationwide, highlighting the escalating tension between his supporters and the government.
İmamoğlu’s Nomination as CHP Presidential Candidate
Ekrem İmamoğlu, the ousted mayor of Istanbul, is set to become the presidential candidate for the opposition party CHP in the upcoming 2028 elections. His candidacy comes amidst significant public support, including millions of symbolic votes in his favor.
The CHP, Turkey’s largest opposition party, has officially endorsed İmamoğlu, who is currently facing pre-trial detention due to allegations of corruption and was removed from his mayoral role. At a recent rally, CHP leader Özgür Özel revealed that out of approximately 1.7 million party members eligible to vote, around 1.6 million backed İmamoğlu as their candidate. Notably, he was the sole candidate presented by the CHP during the primary elections.
Public Support and Controversies Surrounding İmamoğlu
In an unprecedented move, non-party members were also encouraged to participate in the voting process through solidarity ballot boxes. Reports indicate that nearly 15 million individuals cast their votes, with 13.2 million expressing their solidarity for İmamoğlu. This demonstrates the widespread public backing he has garnered, as echoed by Özel’s mention of approximately 13 million symbolic votes, although this count is based on just over half of the ballots counted from the solidarity ballot boxes.
Despite the upcoming elections being three years away, İmamoğlu is already positioning himself as a candidate. However, the path to formal candidacy remains uncertain. The Turkish electoral authority, YSK, which is perceived to be aligned with the government, must confirm his candidacy amidst ongoing investigations against him. His situation is further complicated by his recent arrest alongside over a hundred others, as he faces two separate inquiries: one regarding corruption and another concerning alleged support for a terrorist organization.
The controversy deepens with the recent revocation of İmamoğlu’s university degree, a requirement for presidential candidacy in Turkey, adding another layer of complexity to his political future. Following his arrest, protests have erupted across Turkey, marking a significant moment in the nation’s political landscape.
As the situation unfolds, the tension between İmamoğlu’s supporters and the government continues to rise, prompting widespread demonstrations and calls for justice and transparency.