Main opposition CHP holds rallies in ruling AK Party strongholds to support Imamoglu

The main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) is set to continue its series of rallies launched in response to what it calls a politically motivated legal process targeting former Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu.

After a large gathering in Mersin, the party is now preparing for a major event in the central Anatolian city of Konya.

CHP’s Central Executive Board met under the leadership of party chairman Ozgur Ozel to evaluate public response to the recent rally in Yozgat and outline its political strategy moving forward.

The board described the judicial process involving Imamoglu and his colleagues as a “judicial coup” and vowed to maintain its nationwide mobilization efforts.

According to local media, the party will hold a “people’s rally” in Ankara on April 23, followed by the Mersin rally on April 26.

However, special emphasis is being placed on the May 3 rally in Konya, which party leaders see as having a significant political and social impact.

Weekly district-level rallies across Istanbul will also continue uninterrupted, with a strong focus on themes such as the national will, the rule of law, and justice.

In parallel, CHP is pushing forward with a signature campaign demanding freedom for Imamoglu and calling for early elections. The campaign, amplified through social media, will reportedly conclude once it reaches 28 million signatures.

Meanwhile, CHP leader Ozgur Ozel has announced that he will not attend the April 23 National Sovereignty and Children’s Day reception at the Turkish Parliament.

The decision is seen as a protest against ongoing legal actions against CHP-affiliated mayors. However, Ozel is expected to deliver a 10-minute speech during the special parliamentary session that day.