Tens of thousands of people marched in Izmir, Turkey, on Tuesday to show support for Ozgur Ozel, the deposed leader of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). The rally came amid escalating political tensions in the country.
Massive turnout in Izmir
The demonstration drew a large crowd, with participants waving Turkish flags and carrying banners condemning the government's actions. Ozel, who was removed from his position earlier this month, addressed the crowd, calling for unity and democratic rights.
“We will not bow to authoritarianism,” Ozel said in his speech. “The people's will cannot be silenced.”
Political context
The CHP has been a key opposition force in Turkey, and Ozel's removal has sparked widespread criticism from both domestic and international observers. Many see it as a crackdown on political dissent.
Security forces were present but the rally remained peaceful. Organizers claimed over 100,000 attendees, though official numbers were not immediately available.
