The Global Story
Turkey: Erdogan's political deja vu
Mar 21, 2025
Elcin Poyrazlar, a seasoned journalist and author, joins Dilay Yalcin, a Turkey expert at BBC Monitoring, to delve into the arrest of Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu. They explore its striking parallels to Erdogan's own past arrest, reflecting on the political climate in Turkey. The discussion includes the rise of Imamoglu as a formidable opponent to Erdogan, the implications of authoritarianism, and the ongoing protests fueled by discontent among citizens. Their insights shed light on a nation grappling with its political future.
26:15
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Ekrem Imamoglu's arrest highlights Erdogan's fears of losing political power, reflecting a history of suppression against opposition figures in Turkey.
- Turkey's shift from emerging democracy to autocracy under Erdogan underscores the ongoing struggle for democratic principles amid political unrest.
Deep dives
The Arrest of Ekrem İmamoğlu
The recent arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu has sparked significant political unrest in Turkey, drawing parallels to the history of current President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. İmamoğlu's diploma was revoked by Istanbul University, leading to accusations of corruption and alleged links to terrorism, which many view as politically motivated. The police response was overwhelming, with hundreds dispatched to his home to execute the arrest, prompting massive protests across Istanbul. This mobilization indicates a growing frustration within Turkish society, as citizens express their discontent over what they perceive as an abuse of power by the government.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
