Protests that began across Turkey after the arrest of Istanbul's mayor have taken a new form as government opponents called for a one-day boycott of retail outlets.
The boycott, organised by student groups, calls on citizens to refrain from shopping during the day and for businesses to close.
Large-scale protests against the government began last month after the jailing of Ekrem Imamoglu, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's main rival.
“I fully support the consumer boycott organized by young people to protest the persecution of students, mothers, fathers and siblings. I call on everyone to participate in this boycott and use their power from consumption,” Özgür Özel, leader of the Republican People's Imamoglu Party (CHP), said on social media.
The immediate effect of the nationwide boycott was not obvious, but it did prompt a swift response from the authorities.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya described it as “sabotage” and “an attempted coup against our economy,” while Trade Minister Omer Bolat said companies that suffered losses would be able to sue for compensation against those calling for a boycott.
Mr Bolat posted photos of his purchases on social media and added that it was “a day to protect the national economy.”
The head of Turkey's broadcaster has raised the possibility of taking action against news channels that support the boycott. Last week, the body imposed a 10-day ban on one opposition channel, as well as fines and temporary suspensions of programming on others.
Imamoglu, in a message from prison, where he has been held since March 23, said that European politicians are beginning to sever ties with Turkey.
He noted that EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos and MP Dario Nardella had cancelled their participation in the upcoming diplomatic forum in Antalya.
The mayor has been charged with corruption and terrorism, which experts say are politically motivated.
The government maintains that the judiciary is independent and free from political influence. While in prison, he was nominated as the CHP's presidential candidate in elections scheduled for 2028 but likely to be held sooner.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
