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Anonymous Letter with Hints About Greek Origin Included in Imamoğlu Case

Published January 28, 2026, 07:13
Anonymous Letter with Hints About Greek Origin Included in Imamoğlu Case

An anonymous letter containing allegations about the origin of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, hinting at Greek roots and a name change for religious reasons, has been officially included in his case file, sparking outrage and accusations of “black propaganda” from the judiciary allegedly close to President Erdoğan. The letter, published by Nordic Monitor, mentions relatives of İmamoğlu residing in Greece and suggests that his family changed their surname in the 1980s to appear Muslim. Despite lacking a signature or supporting evidence, the letter was incorporated into the case with the recommendation of a senior prosecutor, raising questions about the legality of the process. The case has taken on new dimensions with the arrest of a journalist who revealed the existence of the letter, on charges of spreading misinformation. The journalist was eventually released under restrictive conditions. İmamoğlu, a key opponent of Erdoğan in the upcoming elections, faces serious charges, and his university degree has also been revoked, effectively excluding him from the presidential race.