The European People's Party Group in the European Committee of the Regions (EPP-CoR) strongly condemns the arrest of Ekrem İmamoğlu, the democratically elected Mayor of Istanbul. This is a clear attempt to silence and discourage a legitimate opposition leader, undermining democracy, the rule of law, and freedom of speech in Türkiye.
The EPP-CoR denounces this dangerous act as part of a broader pattern of dismissals targeting elected mayors in opposition-led municipalities. Local democracy is the backbone of a free and fair society, and the continued erosion of democratic principles is deeply concerning.
"The EPP-CoR stands firmly in support of political pluralism and local democracy in Türkiye. We call for an immediate end to such undemocratic actions," said Jelena Drenjanin, Chair of the CoR Working Group on Türkiye.
This action follows a broader suppression on elected officials, as highlighted in the European Parliament resolution of 13 February 2025, which condemns the arbitrary dismissal and imprisonment of democratically elected mayors and their replacement by unelected government trustees, a practice that violates democratic principles and disenfranchises millions of voters.
As a candidate country, Türkiye must uphold democratic principles, the rule of law, and fundamental rights in line with EU accession criteria. Sari Rautio, President of the EPP-CoR called for the release, acquittal, and reinstatement of all elected mayors unless credible evidence justifies their removal, in line with international legal standards. "The EPP-CoR calls on Türkiye to end this systematic attack on democracy and local governance and urges all European institutions to closely monitor the situation and take the necessary diplomatic measures to safeguard democratic values in the country." she concluded.