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Imamoglu Faces Court Again Over 'Forged' Degree

Published February 16, 2026, 12:16
Imamoglu Faces Court Again Over 'Forged' Degree

Ekrem Imamoglu, the Mayor of Istanbul and presidential candidate for Turkey, appeared in court again regarding the case of his degree cancellation. During his testimony, he accused state media of targeting him and warned they would be held accountable. The case concerns the cancellation of his degree by Istanbul University due to an 'obvious error' regarding his transfer from a university in the occupied territories, without legal proceedings against other students from the same period. Imamoglu argued that the case isn't about the validity of his degree, but a political targeting by the government due to his increasing electoral appeal. He characterized the prosecution as a 'political coup attempt' and accused the presidential system of concentrating excessive power, endangering democracy. Furthermore, he criticized the judicial officials, stating that the process is politically motivated and targets both him and the Republican People's Party (CHP). He warned that all those involved in 'illegal actions' would be held accountable during the upcoming elections. Imamoglu's statements were strong and aggressive, notably referencing state media, which he accused of acting as paid executors of the government. This case is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming election period in Turkey.