A Turkish court ordered Istanbul Mayor and opposition leader Ekrem Imamoglu jailed Sunday, following intense interrogation, on corruption charges—Aljazeera report.

The judge ruled he remain in custody pending trial, escalating tensions across the country. Local time Sunday saw Imamoglu transferred to prison as supporters gathered outside the courthouse, chanting slogans and protesting his detention.

Nationwide demonstrations demanding his release persist, rocking Turkey for days. From capital Ankara to key cities, outrage against his arrest fuels continuous rallies. Saturday, authorities grilled Imamoglu extensively before the court’s decision. Followers clashed with police in several areas, undeterred by the government’s stance.

Many Turkish officials and analysts believe President Recep Tayyip Erdogan aims to block Imamoglu from the 2028 presidential race. They argue his arrest stems from politically motivated accusations a claim Erdogan denies instead accusing opposition activists of stirring chaos.

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Imamoglu’s jailing could intensify protests against Erdogan’s administration, experts warn as public anger swells over perceived judicial overreach.