Turkey on fire.. Massive popular demonstrations in Ankara and Istanbul

The Turkish capital, Ankara, witnessed a massive demonstration yesterday, Sunday, attended by more than 100,000 people under the slogan "Erdogan, Resign," protesting the actions of the current government authorities.

The demonstrators gathered in Tandoğan Square ahead of a court hearing that could lead to the removal of leaders from the Republican People's Party (CHP).

Party leader Ozgur Ozel said the rally was held "to stand against the judicial coup" and attacked the government, describing it as "unwilling to achieve democracy and justice." He pointed out that it seeks to cover up its crimes and prevent others from winning elections.

In a related development, the Istanbul Public Prosecutor's Office issued arrest warrants two days ago for 48 people, including the mayor of Bayrampaşa, Hasan Mutlu, from the CHP, as part of investigations allegedly related to "bribery and tender manipulation."

These measures are part of a broader campaign to reassert control over major municipalities, which has sparked widespread local and international criticism regarding the decline in judicial independence and the narrowing of freedoms.

The recent demonstrations, which preceded those in Ankara and Istanbul, and the escalating legal campaign reflect the political turmoil in Turkey, at a time when debate is growing about the Justice and Development Party's (AKP) violent control over state institutions and institutions and the silencing of critical voices.

Sh-S

ANHA