How Erdogan's rival could be barred from Turkey's election – DW – 09/10/2025

Turkey's Election: Ekrem Imamoglu Faces Forgery Charges Turkish opposition leader Ekrem Imamoglu is set to face a court hearing on September 11, where he will be tried on charges of forgery. If convicted, the former mayor of Istanbul and presidential candidate could face up to eight years and nine months in prison. Timeline: Imamoglu was arrested in March and has been held in Silivri high-security prison since then. The University of Istanbul annulled his diploma just before his arrest, which is one of the documents allegedly forged by Imamoglu. Immediate Impact: A conviction would likely bar Imamoglu from participating in Turkey's upcoming election, potentially giving President Recep Tayyip Erdogan a significant advantage. The opposition has accused the judiciary of targeting their leaders and undermining democracy. Background Context: The Republican People's Party (CHP) has faced intense scrutiny from the Turkish judiciary, with 16 mayors and hundreds of party officials arrested in recent months. Imamoglu is seen as one of the most promising candidates to challenge Erdogan's rule. What Happens Next: Imamoglu will appear in court on September 11, where he will face a judge who has already convicted several CHP leaders on similar charges. The outcome of this hearing could have far-reaching consequences for Turkey's election and its democratic process. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Dw reporting.*