Crackdown in Turkey: Three Opposition Mayors Arrested in the South,
In a significant political development, Turkish authorities have arrested three mayors from the country's pro-Kurdish opposition party in the southern region, raising concerns over the growing pressure on dissenting voices.
The mayors, who represent municipalities in the mainly Kurdish southeast, were detained as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged links to outlawed groups.
Local media reported that the arrests are part of a wider government crackdown targeting members of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), which has long faced accusations of supporting militants, which the party denies.
Interior Ministry announced that the mayors are suspected of “spreading terrorist propaganda” and “misusing public resources.” Police operations reportedly included searches of homes and municipal offices. Although official details are limited, the move has already been heavily criticized by human rights groups and international observers.
"Opposition reacts strongly"
HDP and other opposition parties condemned the arrests, accusing the government of using the judicial weapon to silence political opponents and undermine democracy.
These arrests are politically motivated,” an HDP spokesman said. “Our elected officials are being removed without legal justification, and the will of the people is being ignored once again.
Since the failed coup attempt in 2016, Turkey has increasingly used anti-terrorism laws to target opposition figures, journalists and civil society organizations. Hundreds of HDP members have been jailed over the years, and dozens of elected officials have been replaced by state-appointed trustees.
"International attention"
Human rights organizations including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have expressed concern over what they call a pattern of repression. They are urging the international community to hold the Turkish government accountable for its violations of democratic principles.
Human Rights Watch representative said the arrest of democratically elected mayors was deeply disturbing and undermined local governance and human rights in Turkey.
As legal proceedings begin, the arrested mayors are expected to appear before prosecutors in the coming days. Meanwhile, their municipalities are likely to be placed under state-appointed administrators - a move that has become common in opposition-led regions.
The situation remains tense, with protests already reported in some areas. The development could deepen political polarization in the country as Turkey prepares for upcoming local elections.