Erdogan has reasons for concern — Ararat Kostanyan on growing protests in Turkey

Mass protests erupted in Turkey on March 19 after the arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu, who is accused of corruption. The politician, considered one of Erdogan’s main rivals in possible snap elections, was later arrested and removed from his position as mayor of Istanbul. Protests in support of Imamoglu continue, with the politician asserting that he will not yield to government pressure.

Alpha News discussed this issue with international relations expert and orientalist Ararat Kostanyan.

“Today’s demonstrations are making Erdogan uneasy. While he previously benefited from external patronage, the significance of this support has diminished. Both regional and international forces are showing greater restraint in relation to Turkey’s ambitions. Today, within the framework of compromises between the US and Russia, Turkey’s ambitious policy will be reduced,” he said.

He noted that Imamoglu enjoys greater public approval than Erdogan.

“Erdogan has legitimate reasons for concern, especially as Imamoglu, the opposition party leader, is considered by some as a more charismatic figure than Erdogan,” Konstanyan added.

Over 300 Turkish writers have issued a joint statement against Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. They said that they will not remain silent and are against “this anti-democratic practice.”