A university invalidated the diploma of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu on Tuesday, in a move widely perceived as politically motivated to block the popular opposition figure and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s key rival from running in the next presidential race.
Istanbul University nullified Imamoglu’s diploma, citing alleged irregularities in his 1990 transfer from a private university in northern Cyprus to its Faculty of Business Administration. The decision disqualifies Imamoglu from running for president — a position that requires candidates to hold a university degree. Imamoglu is expected to appeal.
The decision comes just days before the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) is scheduled to hold a primary election, where Imamoglu was expected to be chosen as its presidential candidate. The next presidential vote is scheduled for 2028, but early elections are likely.
Imamoglu, 53, called the university’s decision “illegal,” insisting it does not have the authority to cancel the diploma.
“The days when those who made this decision will be held accountable before history and justice are near. The march of our people, who are thirsty for justice, law, and democracy, cannot be stopped,” he wrote on X.
Source:AP
