🗳️ Türkiye’s main opposition party, CHP, held a nationwide primary today to select its presidential candidate for the 2028 elections.

The vote took place under extraordinary political pressure.
Just days earlier, İstanbul University revoked Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu’s diploma. Then came mass detentions targeting over 100 municipal officials.
On March 23, İmamoğlu—seen by many as the strongest opposition figure—was formally arrested on corruption charges.

But across Türkiye, voters still lined up—not only to vote, but to speak out.

“There are so many reasons, but above all, we want to live. We want to feel alive. That’s our biggest reason.” – İlayda, a person who voted for solidarity

“I’ve been voting CHP for years. Life has become unbearable—everything’s overpriced, and the food we eat is cheap in quality but expensive to buy. There’s no security left for the youth.” – Fatma Özdil, long-time CHP voter

“We’re here against injustice, unlawfulness, and inequality. We want peace in Türkiye. We want justice, democracy, and human rights. I’m here for a secular and independent Republic of Türkiye—and for İmamoğlu. Freedom, justice, the rule of law.” – Fethullah Tandoğan

“This is not about party politics. I’m here for justice and democracy. I stand with the oppressed.” – Nevzat Babaöz, a former right-wing party member

From behind bars, İmamoğlu’s words were shared by his family:

“Even behind bars, I trust the people. Let our will be louder than fear.”

This wasn’t just a primary.
For many, it was a public referendum on justice, democracy, and the direction Türkiye is heading.