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Sky News Daily

The 'charisma battle' at the heart of the Turkish protests

Mar 24, 2025
Alex Crawford, Sky's special correspondent in Istanbul, provides firsthand insights into the protests erupting after the arrest of popular opposition leader Ekrem Imamoglu, a 2028 presidential hopeful. Journalist Hannah Lucinda Smith, author of 'Erdogan Rising', examines the implications of Imamoglu's detention, suggesting it reflects President Erdogan’s tightening grip on power. Together, they discuss the intense unrest, the cultural clash between charisma and authority, and the broader struggle for democratic rights in Turkey.
15:26

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Quick takeaways

  • Ekrem İmamoğlu's arrest has ignited widespread protests against President Erdogan, challenging his authoritarian grip on Turkey's political landscape.
  • The pivotal role of social media in facilitating protest mobilization underscores the ongoing struggle for democratic rights and freedom of expression in Turkey.

Deep dives

Political Turmoil in Turkey

Ekrem İmamoğlu's recent arrest amid accusations of corruption has sparked nationwide protests, marking a significant challenge to President Erdogan's authority. İmamoğlu, popular for his savvy use of social media, prompted thousands to take to the streets in response to what many consider a politically motivated detention. The unrest has resulted in violent clashes with police, leading to over a thousand arrests, including journalists, highlighting the tension between the government and dissenters. These protests are significant, representing the largest mobilization against Erdogan in over a decade, fueled by widespread dissatisfaction with his increasingly authoritarian rule.

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