A photographer from AFP was arrested on Tuesday as protests against the Turkish government continue to intensify.
The arrest, along with the detention of six other journalists, has sparked further controversy surrounding President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s administration.
The protests, now entering their seventh day, were initially triggered by the arrest of Istanbul’s mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, and have escalated into a national movement.
The Arrest of the AFP Journalist
Yasin Akgul, an AFP photojournalist, was covering a march on Tuesday when he was detained by the police.
Authorities claimed that Akgul had participated in an illegal protest, which led to his arrest.
However, Akgul clarified that he had only been photographing the demonstration and had not joined it.
Following his arrest, Fabrice Fries, the CEO and Chairman of AFP, wrote a letter directly to President Erdogan, urging him to intervene and ensure Akgul’s release.
"We expect you to intervene in this matter directly and ensure the journalist`s release. This arrest is completely unacceptable," the letter stated.
Nationwide Protests Grow
On Tuesday, over a thousand protesters marched toward the municipal office in the Sisli district of Istanbul, demanding the resignation of the government.
Many held banners and signs reading, “We want Tayyip’s resignation.”
The protests have continued despite the government’s heavy-handed approach, with the police detaining approximately 1,400 people.
Erdogan Defends His Government`s Actions
As protests spread, President Erdogan spoke out, claiming that the allegations about Imamoglu’s arrest were baseless.
He emphasized that Imamoglu’s arrest was not politically motivated and that the matter was now in the hands of an independent judiciary.
Erdogan also took aim at the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), accusing them of inciting violence.
Imamoglu, a key figure in the CHP, is seen as Erdogan’s main rival in the 2028 elections, with the CHP having already declared him as their presidential candidate.
Erdogan warned protesters on Tuesday, saying, "Those who are creating chaos on the streets will not succeed.
They are walking down a dead-end road." It’s important to note that the Turkish government has already imposed a ban on public protests and gatherings.
Opposition Calls for Larger Protests
Despite Erdogan’s warnings, the protests show no signs of slowing down. Opposition leaders have called for even bigger demonstrations in the coming days.
CHP leader Özgür Özel visited Imamoglu at Silivri Prison on Tuesday and confirmed that Imamoglu is in good health and has remained strong.
He expressed his gratitude to his supporters and thanked his family and colleagues.
After meeting with Imamoglu, Özel announced that the CHP would appoint a new mayor to temporarily take over at the Istanbul Municipality.
The party has made it clear that they do not recognize the replacement appointed by Erdogan.
A mass rally is planned for Saturday in Istanbul, with Özel urging people from all walks of life to join.
"This march is being organized to demand Imamoglu’s release, call for a fair trial, and push for early elections," he said.
"We invite everyone to join this movement."
As the political crisis deepens, the situation in Turkey remains highly tense, with the government and opposition locked in an ongoing battle over power and democratic principles.
