Turkish riot police use water cannons ahead of deposed Opposition leader's speech to rally
Riot police in Turkiye used water cannons to disperse crowds attempting to hear a speech by the deposed leader of the Republican People's Party. The political crisis intensified after a court ruling replaced Ozgur Ozel with his predecessor, sparking outrage among supporters. The CHP is currently seen as a significant challenger to President Erdogan, despite ongoing legal challenges against its members.
- ▪Riot police blocked access to Cumhuriyet Square in Izmir, where Ozgur Ozel planned to speak.
- ▪The court ruling that ousted Ozel is viewed by many as a politically motivated attack on the CHP.
- ▪Ozel has vowed to continue his struggle and engage with supporters despite the police crackdown.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Riot police in Turkiye used water cannons on Tuesday (May 26, 2026) to prevent people from gathering to hear a speech by the deposed leader of the country's main Opposition party.Ozgur Ozel and the core leadership of the Republican People's Party, or CHP, were removed from their posts on Thursday (May 26, 2026) by a court order that many people consider to be politically motivated.mMr. Ozel had intended to address supporters on Tuesday (May 26, 2026) in the western Turkish city of Izmir, but those heading to the city's Cumhuriyet Square found their way blocked by steel barriers and riot police.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Hindu — Top.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Hindu — Top
