Judicial Proceedings Against CHP and Ekrem İmamoğlu Dominate Political Agenda

Economic Data and Shift in Political Strategy The postponement of economic recovery expectations from 2025 to 2026, coupled with negative data released in mid-February, has reportedly led to a shift in the government's political strategy.
Observers suggest that this shift involves increasing judicial pressure on the opposition.
A key component of this strategy is seen as an attempt to block Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu’s potential presidential candidacy and to weaken the Republican People's Party (CHP) ahead of the election cycle.
Critical Legal Cases Targeting the CHP Three significant judicial processes involving CHP leadership and local officials have recently come to the forefront: The Aziz İhsan Aktaş case in Silivri, involving mayors and bureaucrats, continued with the testimony of defendants pending trial.
The case against CHP Istanbul Provincial Chair Özgür Çelik, stemming from tensions at the Çağlayan Courthouse on January 31, 2025, has been postponed to September 14.
The trial regarding allegations of pressure on delegates during the CHP’s 38th Ordinary Congress saw its third hearing completed, with the process adjourned until April 1.
New Judicial Move Against İmamoğlu A new legal proceeding against Ekrem İmamoğlu is scheduled to begin on March 9, signaling an intensification of legal pressure.
This case, in which a heavy prison sentence is sought, has resonated widely in political circles.
There are predictions that the pressure will be further increased by consolidating various legal processes.
Opposition Strategy and Social Base CHP Chairman Özgür Özel has described these developments as a "judicial siege." In response, the party’s primary strategy is focused on expanding its social base.
The CHP leadership aims not only to consolidate its current voters but also to reach all segments of society, including AK Party voters, to maximize its electoral potential.