Latest on Ekrem Imamoglu's X-Account Shutdown in Turkey
X-Account Blocked in Turkey
Turkey imposes restrictions on X accounts belonging to imprisoned mayor Imamoglu.
Turkey's authorities have blacklisted the X-Account of jailed Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, due to a request from the Turkish Communications Directorate, citing national security and public order issues. However, the account remains accessible globally, except within Turkey [1][2][3].
Legal Battle Ahead
X has acknowledged complying with Turkish orders but contests the blockage. The company has initiated legal proceedings by filing an appeal, with an attorney working to challenge the decision in court [2][3].
Investigation and Charges
Imamoglu's legal troubles stem from an investigation launched by Istanbul prosecutors following a post he made on April 24. Thepost is alleged to have incited criminal activity, leading to a court decision to block access to his X-Account during his pre-trial detention [3].
Ongoing Protests in Turkey
Imamoglu's arrest on March 19 sparked a wave of protests across Turkey. The demonstrations continue, with protesters demanding his release and raising concerns about the erosion of democracy under President Erdogan [1][3].
Political Ramifications
As a formidable opposition figure, Imamoglu's arrest and communication restrictions could impact his participation in future elections such as the 2028 presidential election, where polls suggest he could be a strong contender [2][3].
The Republican People's Party, to which Imamoglu belongs, claims that the X-Account blockage is an attempt to hinder Imamoglu's communication with the public, and highlights the government's increasing anxiety about losing power [2].
[1] https://www.ntv.de/[2] http://www.als.de/[3] https://www.dpa.de/
- The Commission, in light of Ekrem Imamoglu's X-Account shutdown, has been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, as the incident raises questions about freedom of speech and communication.
- Amid the ongoing protests in Turkey over Imamoglu's arrest, there is a growing disagreement in the realm of general-news and politics, with Imamoglu's party alleging that the X-Account blockage is an attempt to obstruct his ability to inform the public.
- In the backdrop of the politics surrounding Imamoglu's case, the Republican People's Party has also expressed concerns about potential criminal charges that could be levied against him, given the investigation initiated following a post he made on April 24.
- Despite being jailed and facing restrictions on his communication, Ekrem Imamoglu's profile as a prominent opposition figure continues to be a hot topic in crime-and-justice and international news circles, especially as he is viewed as a strong contender for the 2028 presidential election.
