Right before Imamoglu’s arrest, Istanbul University annulled his degree based on alleged irregularities, disqualifying him from running for president. This came days before the CHP was set to pick Imamoglu as its presidential candidate for the 2028 election. Municipal office often gives opposition leaders visibility, administrative experience and a track record showing that there is another way to govern. However, when incumbents can neutralize their rivals through lawfare, public institutions lose credibility, and politics hinges on the survival strategies of those in power. A democratic country can retain its outward form even as its leaders use the courts to engineer political outcomes.

Source: Taipei Times February 28, 2026 16:12 UTC