The Turkish opposition is currently rallying support to boycott pro-government media, following the unprecedented imprisonment of Istanbul's Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, which sparked the largest protests seen in Turkey in a decade. Demonstrations erupted in response to Imamoglu’s conviction, where he was accused of corruption—a charge he vehemently denies.
On March 23, 2025, thousands gathered in Istanbul, amidst a crackdown by police who utilized pepper spray and water cannons, arresting over 1,000 individuals. The protests spread across more than two-thirds of Turkey's provinces, indicating widespread discontent with the current regime led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Despite authorities banning gatherings, the protests show no signs of waning as citizens demand accountable governance and freedom of expression.
Özgür Özel, the president of the Republican People’s Party (CHP) and a vocal critic of Erdogan, addressed the swelling crowds, urging support for the boycott against media outlets and companies that back the government. He defined the situation as crucial, saying, “This is not just about not watching these channels, but also about not purchasing their products, as doing so makes you complicit.” His words resonated strongly with an audience that has seen the state’s heavy hand suppress dissent.
The media landscape in Turkey is overwhelmingly pro-government, with a staggering 90% under state control, as reported by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). They rank Turkey at a dismal 158 out of 180 in terms of press freedom, highlighting the systematic issues journalists face, particularly in covering dissent. Coverage of the protests has been minimal on major networks, with little to no footage broadcasted, further emphasizing the rift between the government and the populace.
The unrest is underscored by a dramatic clampdown on independent reporting. According to reports, authorities not only restricted access to social media platforms, such as X and WhatsApp for 48 hours following Imamoglu’s arrest but also demanded the latter to block up to 700 accounts associated with journalists and dissenters. These actions have further raised the alarm among human rights observers about the state of civil liberties in Turkey.
In light of the government repression, the protests have been marked by a significant presence of students, with gatherings seen in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara. Eyewitnesses reported that riot police clashed with demonstrators, resulting in further arrests and heightened tensions, bringing back haunting memories of the Gezi Park protests in 2013, which were similarly met with a heavy-handed police response.
International reactions have also played a significant role in this unfolding narrative. The German government publicly condemned Imamoglu's arrest, labeling it as “totally unacceptable.” The statement from Berlin reflects a growing concern within the European community regarding democratic backsliding in Turkey, particularly as Imamoglu was considered a strong contender for the presidency in 2028 and a major obstacle to Erdogan's dominance.
In recent days, the Turkish authorities threatened to revoke broadcast licenses from television stations if they continued to cover the protests live. This tactic prompted some channels to cease coverage altogether, showcasing the extent of government control over media narratives.
As demonstrations continue throughout the country, the cry for freedom and democratic rights grows louder. Support for the boycott of pro-Erdogan businesses and media is gradually gaining traction among the Turkish populace, who are recognizing that economic pressure might be one of the most potent tools available to them.
Özgür Özel’s call to economic action is both strategic and symbolic; it seeks to undermine the government’s financial bases while galvanizing opposition unity in a calculated move to reclaim public discourse from the grip of state propaganda. With the failures of past uprisings, the Turkish opposition is emboldened by a new sense of purpose, one that prioritizes collective action and solidarity against oppression.
The state and police response to these protests will likely determine the unfolding dynamics of power in Turkey. As citizens persist, defying restrictions and confronting authority, the opposition's resolve seems equally matched, promising a turbulent road ahead with no clear end in sight.
As adept observers point out, sustained protest and civil disobedience might not only reshape the country's political landscape but also signal potential changes in the relationship between the state and its citizens.
