Turkish opposition leader sharply criticises AKP takeover in Istanbul's Üsküdar

Turkish main opposition leader Özgür Özel has condemned the transfer of the Üsküdar district municipal leadership in Istanbul to the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) following a controversial council vote.

Speaking at a rally in Üsküdar Pier Square and during a television interview on Koza TV, Özel called the council vote outcome one of the darkest moments in the country's recent political history. Addressing President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Özel questioned the government's commitment to democratic norms, emphasizing that opposition Mayor Sinem Dedetaş had originally won the municipality through a legitimate popular mandate. Özel also discussed Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş's recent meeting with Erdoğan, arguing that political dialogue remains essential despite deep institutional tensions.

Sources: Bianet, Cumhuriyet.