Economist Podcasts
Not so delightful: Erdogan arrests rival
Mar 20, 2025
In this discussion, Matt Yuki, a Latin America expert, and Annie Crable, a news editor, delve into pressing global issues. They analyze the arrest of Turkish opposition leader Ekrem Imamoglu and its threatening implications for democracy in Turkey. The conversation shifts to Panama's strategic negotiations amid U.S. relations with insights on how these lessons might relate to future dealings with Donald Trump. Annie also shares intriguing details about visiting zoos for antivenom treatment, underscoring their vital role in snakebite emergencies.
25:33
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Quick takeaways
- Ekrem Imamoglu's arrest signals increasing authoritarianism in Turkey, jeopardizing the prospects for democracy and free opposition.
- Diplomatic tensions between Panama and the U.S. illustrate the complexities of international relations amid aggressive political demands and evolving interests.
Deep dives
The Political Unrest in Turkey
The arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu, the mayor of Istanbul and a leading opposition figure, has created a significant political upheaval in Turkey. Imamoglu was taken into custody amidst allegations that many see as politically motivated, which include charges ranging from leading a crime organization to bribery. This event not only marks a crackdown on dissent but also highlights the increasing authoritarianism of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government as they aim to suppress opposition ahead of the upcoming elections. The fallout has resulted in large protests, with opposition supporters rallying against Imamoglu's arrest and asserting that this move is an attempt to undermine their chances in future presidential elections.
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