Imamoglu has characterized his legal battles as political punishment, criticizing the judiciary for acting under government influence, while Erdogan's government maintains the courts are independent.

If upheld, Imamoglu’s 2022 conviction could bar him from future elections, and Istanbul University has revoked his degree, which is necessary for presidential candidacy.

Experts warn that the increasing persecution of opposition figures signals a shift toward a more consolidated dictatorship under Erdogan, aiming to dismantle the opposition before upcoming elections.

Imamoglu has been imprisoned since late March 2025 and plans to appeal the verdict, which is part of a broader pattern of legal challenges and political persecution against opposition leaders in Turkey.

Since his arrest, officials from CHP-controlled municipalities have faced investigations and arrests, fueling accusations that the government is targeting opposition figures to weaken their political influence.

The ruling AKP, led by President Erdogan, experienced a historic electoral setback, placing second behind CHP in a recent nationwide vote, though the government denies judicial interference.

The recent trial of Imamoglu took place in the Silivri prison complex, a common venue for politically sensitive cases, with the court rejecting charges of targeting individuals involved in terrorism.

Supporters protested outside Silivri prison during the trial, reflecting widespread concern over the crackdown on opposition voices, with over 120 CHP members arrested earlier in July.

Despite international criticism, the Turkish government insists its courts are independent and impartial, even as opposition leaders argue that the legal system is being used to suppress dissent.

Ekrem Imamoglu, the mayor of Istanbul and a leading opposition figure, has been sentenced to one year and seven months in prison for 'insult' and 'threat' against a prosecutor, marking his second conviction related to political criticism.

During the trial, Imamoglu stated he has defeated Erdogan in democratic elections four times and would do so again if given the chance, highlighting his continued political resilience.

Erdogan, who is barred from running again due to constitutional limits, is exploring potential amendments with legal experts to change this restriction, requiring a two-thirds parliamentary majority.