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Istanbul has entered a period of heightened political tension following the protest ban, the appointment of a trustee to the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) provincial branch, and an ongoing dispute over the congress.
The Istanbul Governor’s Office announced on Sept. 7, 2025, that all rallies, marches, press statements, and similar events are banned in the districts of Besiktas, Beyoglu, Eyupsultan, Kagithane, Sariyer, and Sisli until 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 10.
The decision came shortly after the CHP Youth Branch called for a demonstration under the slogan “shoulder to shoulder.”
The 45th Civil Court of First Instance ruled to remove the CHP Istanbul provincial leadership over alleged irregularities in delegate elections during the party’s 38th Ordinary Congress.
The court appointed Gursel Tekin and a four-member committee as temporary trustees. The CHP leadership rejected the decision, describing it as political interference.
Following the ruling, police tightened security around the CHP provincial headquarters in Istanbul.
Roads leading to the building were blocked, and entry was restricted. Reports that CHP lawmakers were denied access sparked public criticism from the opposition side of the political spectrum.
CHP officials denounced the decision as an attack on democracy, while others argued the legal process must take its course.
Gursel Tekin announced he would formally assume his role on Sept. 8.
The CHP Central Executive Board called for an emergency meeting to discuss next steps as the party braces for further disputes.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya issued a firm warning, emphasizing that ignoring court decisions and calling citizens to the streets would constitute a defiance of the law.
“Attempting to mobilize the public in violation of legal rulings is clearly a challenge to the rule of law. No one is above the law. The state will act decisively against any unlawful attempt. We will not allow public order or the peace of our citizens to be disturbed, nor will we tolerate provocation in the streets,” Yerlikaya said in a social media statement.
The Istanbul provincial congress, held on Oct. 8, 2023, saw Ozgur Celik elected with 342 votes against Cemal Canpolat’s 310.
Allegations soon followed, claiming delegates were bribed with money, tablets, and job promises; that the congress was held at an unauthorized venue; and that delegate numbers were unlawfully increased.
Evidence, including recordings and witness statements, was reviewed by prosecutors, with some party members facing potential prison terms of one to three years. The court cited these allegations in its decision to remove the elected leadership.
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