NORDIC MONITOR -- The government of Turkish President Erdogan has long refused to permit large-scale demonstrations, treating marches and protests as threats to its authority.
In Istanbul last week, that approach was once again on display as riot police surrounded the Istanbul branch office of the Republican People’s Party (CHP) after a court-appointed trustee was assigned to oversee its administration. At the same time the Istanbul Governor’s Office announced a ban on protests, marches and rallies in several districts.
Even the celebration for the national women’s volleyball team, which finished second in the World Championship, was canceled, with officials citing concerns that attendees might turn the event into a protest.
The developments reflect a pattern that has become routine in Turkey. Provincial governors, appointed by the central government, often cite security concerns to ban opposition meetings and marches, especially in Istanbul, where political activity has traditionally been vibrant and protests have drawn large crowds.