Britain called on Turkey’s government to uphold the rule of law following the arrest of Istanbul’s popular opposition mayor, which sparked widespread protests.
A foreign ministry spokesperson emphasized the importance of transparent judicial processes and the protection of fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, and media freedom.
The protests, triggered by the arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu, a key political rival to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, have been met with a crackdown on media coverage. Turkey deported BBC journalist Mark Lowen, who was reporting on the demonstrations, citing his threat to public order, while also imposing a 10-day broadcast ban on an opposition TV channel.
The British foreign ministry has updated its travel advisory for Turkey, urging citizens to avoid crowds and protests, which have been ongoing since March 19. Despite a protest ban, large crowds have continued to march, often clashing with riot police.
AFP photographer Yasin Akgul, arrested during the unrest, was released from jail on Thursday, though charges against him remain. The situation has drawn international concern over the Turkish government's actions.
