Erdogan accuses opposition of destabilization attempt, promises harsh response
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan issued a strong statement against the opposition, accusing it of trying to undermine public order under the guise of political slogans.
Photo: TPKanslia, CC BY 2.0
On March 22, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made a sharp statement, accusing opposition forces, including the Republican People's Party (CHP), of attempting to destabilize the country through street protests.
According to Erdogan, the time when marginal groups and radicals could influence state policy has passed.
He emphasized that Turkey is a democratic and legal state, where decisions are made by courts, not under street pressure.
The head of state warned that the authorities would not tolerate attempts to disrupt public order or provoke ethnic and religious discord.
"If you have the courage, let the law work," he said.
As a reminder, mass protests erupted in Turkey after the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, who is accused of corruption and ties to terrorists.
His detention occurred just before he was to be nominated for president by the opposition. In response, the authorities used force and arrested dozens of people.
Erdogan called the protests a threat to order and promised a harsh response. The opposition claims the arrest is politically motivated.
Meanwhile, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu was interrogated in a case involving corruption and terrorism. He denied all charges, calling them politically driven. The court will decide whether Imamoglu will remain in custody.