ANKARA, Turkey — On Tuesday, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu’s university diploma was nullified by Istanbul University, a step perceived by many as politically driven to bar him, a significant opposition figure and a notable adversary to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, from contending in future presidential elections.
According to the university’s statement, Imamoglu’s diploma was invalidated due to supposed irregularities regarding his 1990 transfer from a private institution in Northern Cyprus to its Faculty of Business Administration. This revocation poses a significant obstacle to his potential presidential candidacy, as Turkish law mandates candidates to possess a university degree. Imamoglu is anticipated to challenge this decision.
This announcement occurs just before the Republican People’s Party (CHP) is set to conduct a primary election, during which Imamoglu was a favored contender for the presidential candidacy. Although the presidential elections are officially planned for 2028, there is speculation about possible early elections.
In response, the 53-year-old Imamoglu criticized the ruling as “illegal,” arguing that the university lacks the jurisdiction to rescind his diploma. He expressed strong opposition by posting on social media, stating that those responsible for such actions will soon face historical and judicial scrutiny.
Imamoglu also suggested that the decision was influenced by Erdogan’s administration and highlighted concerns about the judiciary’s impartiality. Despite these challenges, he affirmed his determination to contest the decision, declaring his intent to persevere.
“. I’m determined to continue my path without hesitation,” Imamoglu asserted.
Mansur Yavas, the mayor of Ankara and another prominent figure in the CHP, condemned the act as an affront to democratic values and announced a suspension of his own presidential bid until the “injustice” against Imamoglu is rectified.
Yavas expressed solidarity, insisting that they would oppose any actions undermining the rule of law and pledged continued efforts for justice. He reaffirmed support for Imamoglu through social media.
Meanwhile, CHP lawmakers conducted a protest in parliament over the diploma decision, which also affected 28 other students with similar transfers to Istanbul University. This development takes place amid a broader government crackdown on the opposition, including the detainment of political figures, journalists, artists, and business leaders critical of governmental policies.
Wolfango Piccoli, from political risk advisory firm Teneo, interpreted the diploma’s annulment as a sign that Erdogan acknowledges a challenging path to electoral victory. Piccoli suggested that this move transcends merely undermining fair elections by removing formidable opponents, as it showcases the government’s capacity to manipulate reality through control over state mechanisms.
Imamoglu, who has navigated various legal battles, was convicted in 2022 for allegedly insulting Turkey’s Supreme Electoral Council, a charge that threatens a political disqualification. He is currently appealing against this verdict.
Additionally, Imamoglu faces other legal allegations, including accusations of attempting to influence a judicial investigator examining opposition-run municipalities. These cases could also lead to imprisonment or political exclusion.
Imamoglu initially ascended to the mayoral position of Istanbul in March 2019, marking a significant defeat for Erdogan and his ruling party, Justice and Development Party, which had dominated Istanbul for 25 years. Allegations of election irregularities led to a contested vote and a subsequent reelection, both of which Imamoglu won.
He maintained his mayoral position after local elections last year, where the CHP achieved noteworthy successes against the ruling party.
