Main opposition CHP requests Imamoglu trial to be broadcasted live in Maltepe rally

The Republican People’s Party (CHP) organized a political rally in Istanbul’s Maltepe on Saturday to support Istanbul Metropolitan Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu‘s freedom. During the event, CHP leader Ozgur Ozel addressed the crowd and responded to calls from the ruling government.

He sent a strong message to the ruling party, emphasizing that democracy and Türkiye’s future were under threat. He also echoed Ekrem Imamoglu’s call for transparency in his trial, demanding it be broadcast live on state-owned TRT channel.

Calls for Justice and Fairness

Ozgur Ozel repeated Imamoglu’s call for transparency: “[President] Erdogan, I’m issuing the biggest challenge in history. Ekrem Imamoglu says his trial should be broadcast live on TRT, and he wants the election process to be fair – with his candidacy beside him, the ballot box in front.”

He denounced the lack of evidence and the use of secret witnesses, saying: “There are no witnesses, no evidence—just lies and false accusations.”

Ozgur Ozel also targeted the media, especially state-affiliated and pro-government channels, for their refusal to broadcast the rally. He revealed that media outlets had received warnings about reporting the events.

He vowed to continue standing against such censorship, stating that the struggle for democracy had moved to the streets. “We will not back down, we will stand with those who represent free and courageous journalism. We will support independent channels like Tele1, Sozcu TV, and Halk TV.”

Ozel challenges President Erdogan

Ozgur Ozel also challenged President Erdogan. “Your path is the same as those who fought against the will of the people and democracy,” Ozel said, referencing Erdogan’s historical opposition to democratic reforms. He also accused Erdogan for betraying the very values the country once stood for, associating him with oppressive figures in Türkiye’s past.

Ozel initiates signature campaign

In the aftermath of the rally, Ozel announced a signature campaign to secure Ekrem Imamoglu’s release and call for early elections. He emphasized that millions of people across the country were ready for change and would not rest until they had restored democracy. The signature campaign was set to begin in Trabzon and Silivri, with the goal of mobilizing support for Imamoglu’s freedom.

In his closing remarks, while emphasizing unity, Ozel called on the people to continue their fight, saying: “We will not stop until we change this government. We will continue to fight for a better, more just Türkiye.”