Mass protests have erupted across Turkey following the jailing of a prominent political rival of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in major cities, condemning the court’s decision and accusing the government of suppressing political opposition.
The jailed opposition figure, whose conviction has sparked outrage, was found guilty on charges critics claim are politically motivated. Opposition leaders and international rights groups have called for his immediate release, warning that the move undermines democracy and judicial independence in Turkey.
Security forces have been deployed to contain the protests, with reports of clashes between demonstrators and police in some areas. Analysts warn that the unrest could escalate as tensions rise ahead of upcoming elections.
