In a politically charged environment, the leader of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), Devlet Bahçeli, has called for a swift conclusion to the ongoing legal proceedings against Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. Bahçeli urged that the court should quickly reach a decision, whether it be acquittal or punishment. His statements, published in a written format, criticized the main opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), accusing it of politicizing the judicial process for their benefit.Bahçeli emphasized the need for the judicial process to conclude efficiently, stating that if İmamoğlu is innocent, he should be freed, and if not, he should face…
Author: Serdar Imren
Serdar Imren
Serdar Imren is a distinguished journalist with an extensive background as a News Director for major Turkish media outlets. His work has consistently focused on upholding the core principles of journalistic integrity: accuracy, impartiality, and a commitment to the truth. In response to the growing restrictions on press freedom in Turkey, he established News Journos to create a platform for independent and critical journalism. His reporting and analysis cover Turkish politics, human rights, and the challenges facing a free press in an increasingly authoritarian environment.
The prison system in Turkey has undergone significant transformations over the past two decades, particularly under the administration of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). The number of prisoners has surged from approximately 59,512 in 2002 to over 400,000 in April 2025, raising concerns about the country’s penal enforcement regime. As prisons evolve from mere detention centers into complex institutions aiming at social discipline, the implications of these changes are profound and merit detailed examination. Article Subheadings 1) An explosion in the number of prisoners: From 50,000 to 400,000 2) Prisoner labor: Invisible labor exploitation 3) The new penal…
Recent reports indicate a turbulent environment in Turkey, marked by youth protests and political unrest. Major media outlets express confusion regarding the future direction of the country’s governance and civil liberties. As tensions rise, the actions and sentiments of the younger generation are at the forefront, capturing the attention of both national and international observers. Article Subheadings 1) A Rising Tide of Discontent in Turkey 2) Youth Activism: Dancing in Protest 3) The Landscape of Turkish Protests 4) Societal Divisions and Digital Natives 5) The Future of Turkey: Hope Amidst Uncertainty A Rising Tide of Discontent in Turkey In the…
In a dramatic development related to the ongoing investigations into the İstanbul Metropolitan Municipality, fourteen individuals were transferred from Marmara Prison in Silivri to various other prisons across Turkey. This action was confirmed by Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç, who stated the transfers aimed to maintain the integrity of the investigation and ensure institutional security. Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and numerous municipal officials were detained last month amid accusations of both corruption and terrorism, raising concerns from officials and political leaders about the possible implications on the detainees’ rights and the fair administration of justice. Article Subheadings 1) A Controversial Transfer of…
A public prosecutor in İstanbul is pursuing prison sentences for seven journalists who were detained while covering protests sparked by the arrest of İstanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu last month. The accusations against these journalists are part of a larger case involving over 800 individuals charged with violations related to demonstrations. This development raises serious concerns regarding press freedom and the treatment of journalists in Turkey, prompting responses from both local unions and international organizations advocating for media rights. Article Subheadings 1) Detention of Journalists During Protests 2) Charges Against the Journalists 3) Response from Journalists’ Union 4) Commentary from International…
An İstanbul court has ordered the release of 102 youths detained during protests that erupted following the arrest of İstanbul Metropolitan Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. The decision, made by the 49th Penal Court of First Instance, reflects a wider backlash against İmamoğlu’s detention on corruption-related charges, sparking significant political tension in the region. Widespread demonstrations, primarily led by students, resulted in over 1,800 detentions as citizens rallied against the government’s actions. With many youths still in custody, the situation remains a central concern for families and political opposition alike. Article Subheadings 1) Court Rulings and Subsequent Releases 2) Ongoing Detention and…
In a remarkable convergence of politics, literature, and scholarly discourse, the University of Washington in Seattle is set to host a series of thought-provoking events featuring prominent figures from Turkey. The agenda includes discussions on civil liberties, minority rights, and contemporary political dynamics, highlighted by the participation of renowned writer Burhan Sonmez and former Turkish Parliament member Garo Paylan. These events will not only explore critical social issues in Turkey but also foster intellectual exchange at the university’s interdisciplinary Global Literary Studies Program. Article Subheadings 1) Events Schedule Unveiled: Engaging Discussions 2) Insights from Burhan Sonmez: A Literary Perspective 3)…
In a significant crackdown on investigative journalism in Turkey, prominent journalists Timur Soykan and Murat Ağırel have been detained during police raids on their homes in Istanbul. The incidents are part of an ongoing investigation linked to allegations of “threat and blackmail” concerning the purchase of a television channel, Flash TV. Legal authorities have stated that these actions stem from a complaint lodged by individuals currently under investigation for money laundering, further highlighting the tense environment for reporters engaged in exposing corruption and illicit activities in the country. Article Subheadings 1) Background on the Journalists and Their Work 2) Details…
In 2025, Turkey faces a burgeoning crisis in its agricultural sector as rising debt levels lead to the aggressive seizure of assets belonging to farmers. As outlined by Ömer Fethi Gürer, a representative from the Republican People’s Party (CHP) and member of the Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Affairs, the industry is grappling with its highest recorded debt totals. Enforcement actions have surged sharply, with millions of cases threatening the livelihoods of farmers across the country, illustrating a significant deterioration in rural economic stability. Article Subheadings 1) Significant Rise in Agricultural Debt 2) The Consequences of Debt Enforcement…
In a significant legal move, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has initiated a civil lawsuit seeking 500,000 Turkish liras, approximately 131,000 US dollars, against the Republican People’s Party (CHP) Chairman, Özgür Özel. This lawsuit follows Özel’s remarks during a recent political speech wherein he labeled Erdoğan as a “junta leader.” The political tensions escalated further as Erdoğan also filed a criminal complaint accusing Özel of insulting him. The backdrop to this legal battle is Özel’s statements regarding the controversial arrest of prominent İstanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, which have sparked widespread protests across Turkey. Article Subheadings 1) Legal Action Against the CHP…