Thousands rallied in Istanbul for a third night in support of arrested mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, Erdogan's main rival, just days before he was to be named the opposition's 2028 presidential candidate.
The arrest, over graft and "supporting terror" allegations, is seen by Imamoglu's CHP party as a politically-motivated "coup."
Clashes erupted between protesters and riot police, who used tear gas and rubber bullets. Similar protests occurred in Ankara and Izmir.
"Don't be afraid, the people are here!" and "Law, rights, justice," read protesters' placards.
Imamoglu's arrest has sparked nationwide protests and dealt a blow to the Turkish lira.
Despite the arrest, the CHP plans to hold its primary on Sunday, opening voting to anyone, not just party members.
Observers believe the government may try to block the primary to prevent further support for Imamoglu.
5 Comments
BuggaBoom
Let's not allow Erdogan to steal another election. Let's get out and vote in the primary and show him that the people of Turkey will not be silenced!
Eugene Alta
We won't let Erdogan bully us into submission. We stand with Imamoglu and demand his immediate release!
BuggaBoom
This is a blatant attempt to undermine Turkish democracy. Imamoglu shouldn't be punished for speaking truth to power.
Loubianka
The opposition is trying to use Imamoglu's arrest to create chaos and gain political advantage. It's a shameful attempt to exploit the situation.
Muchacha
Using terrorism accusations to silence critics is a textbook dictator's tactic. The world is watching, Erdogan!