Istanbul elects Aslan interim mayor amid ongoing protests over Imamoglu
Al JazeeraMAR 30
Istanbul Council Elects Interim Mayor Amid Political Turmoil
Above: Students protest in front of the University of Istanbul during a rally in support of Istanbul's arrested mayor, in Istanbul, on March 26, 2025. Image copyright: Angelos Tzortzinis/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Erdogan's arrest of Istanbul's popular mayor İmamoglu reveals Turkey's rapid descent into authoritarianism. By silencing a formidable political rival through dubious charges, Erdogan is systematically dismantling democratic norms, transforming a once-vibrant democracy into a playground for his unchecked political ambitions.
Narrative B
The Turkish opposition's protests and calls for boycotts are recklessly destabilizing Turkey, causing economic sabotage and threatening national peace. By challenging the government's authority through demonstrations and economic pressure, the opposition risks plunging the country into further chaos and uncertainty.