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The arrest of the Mayor of Istanbul and the state of democracy and human rights in Türkiye

Other author
Parliamentary Assembly
Session
2025 - Second part-session

Summary

The Parliamentary Assembly expresses deep concern over the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, who faces charges of corruption and aiding terrorism, along with 106 others, including journalists and local officials. Imamoglu's detention occurred just before he was nominated for the 2028 presidential election, coinciding with the revocation of his university degree required for candidacy. The Assembly condemns the politically motivated actions against Imamoglu, the violent repression of peaceful protests that followed his arrest, and the infringement of freedoms of expression and assembly. It urges Türkiye to respect human rights, release those unjustly detained, and ensure free and fair elections, while calling on Council of Europe member states to denounce these undemocratic measures.

Voting results

90 in favor 8 against 2 abstentions