Ankara imposes ban on mass gatherings

The Governor’s Office of Ankara has announced a temporary ban on all mass gatherings, protests, and public demonstrations in the city from March 26 to April 1, in a move aimed at maintaining public order.

According to a statement released by the local administration, the ban extends to a wide range of activities, including indoor and outdoor mass gatherings, marches, demonstrations, sit-ins, press conferences, and petition campaigns, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

Additionally, the distribution of leaflets and the display of banners are also prohibited during this period.

The decision, which takes effect at midnight on March 26 and lasts until 11:59 PM on April 1, was made in the interest of public safety, although the authorities did not provide specific reasons for the restrictions.

Local residents and organizations have been urged to comply with the new regulations to avoid any legal repercussions. The ban will also impact the ability of civil society groups and political organizations to organize public events during the period, as well as the freedom to express dissent through public demonstrations.

Türkiye has been swept by unrest since March 19. Violent riots and clashes with the police were sparked by the detention and subsequent arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a member of the opposition Republican People's Party. The party and its leadership addressed their followers, calling upon them to "take to the streets." Imamoglu is facing charges of corruption and abetting terrorism.

By Vafa Guliyeva