Damascus cancels Istanbul Mayor Imamoglu’s delegation visit abruptly

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu has criticized the cancellation of a scheduled visit by the Union of Turkish Municipalities (TBB) and Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) delegation to Damascus, saying the move undermines efforts to foster collaboration between Türkiye and Syria.

Speaking at a graduation ceremony for Türkiye’s first public-supported Game Development Center, Imamoglu disclosed that the Damascus Governorate reversed its approval of the visit within six hours of granting it, citing President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s upcoming visit to Syria.

“The Damascus Governorate issued a written notice stating that the meeting with the TBB delegation has been postponed until after President Erdogan’s visit. This abrupt decision is a serious and inappropriate stance,” Imamoglu told reporters.

The visit, coordinated with Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aimed to share expertise in local governance and contribute to the establishment of a democratic and secular Syrian state. Imamoglu expressed frustration over the sudden reversal, questioning what occurred in the brief window that led to the cancellation.

“What happened in those six hours? Who intervened? Who obstructed this process? Such actions raise serious concerns about transparency and decision-making,” he said.

Broader message on Türkiye’s statehood

Imamoglu underscored that the Republic of Türkiye is greater than any individual or government, addressing his remarks to the Damascus Governorate and others involved in the decision.

“The Republic of Türkiye cannot be defined or confined by one person. It represents a deep and profound structure that extends far beyond the tenure of any government or individual,” he said.

The mayor also questioned why the delegation’s visit would be deemed inappropriate before Erdogan’s arrival, noting that other Turkish organizations and officials have previously engaged with Syrian counterparts.

“Numerous institutions, including MUSIAD, Turkish Airlines, and NGOs, have already conducted meetings in Damascus. Why, then, is the TBB delegation being blocked? This interference lacks any good-faith explanation,” he added.

Istanbol Mayor Imamoglu supports opposition leader’s call for a ‘Red Card’ campaign

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu voiced his support for CHP Chairperson Ozgur Ozel’s recent call encouraging citizens, including retirees and minimum wage workers, to symbolically show a “red card” to the current government for its policies and practices. Imamoglu described the concept as an appropriate and justified response when directed at those who deserve it.

Expanding on the idea, Imamoglu emphasized that dissatisfaction with the government is widespread, even among its own voter base. He suggested that if a symbolic red card were shown to the ruling party today, a significant majority of its supporters—around 70 to 80 percent—would agree that such a gesture is warranted.

“Our chairperson’s call is an important reminder that citizens have the right to express their dissatisfaction,” Imamoglu said. He also encouraged people to express this sentiment publicly, whether in their hearts, at gatherings, or in public squares.