section_path: Reactions/Turkey/Turkish government
section_name: Turkish government
paragraph_text: Turkish government
  
  Following Imamoglu's detention and during subsequent protests, the Istanbul Governor's Office prohibited all public gatherings and demonstrations throughout the city for a four-day period. The office also closed major roads and rail networks located in central Istanbul. Access to various social media platforms including X, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok was restricted, according to reports from internet monitoring organizations.
  
  The Turkish government denied allegations from protesters and opposition parties, maintaining that the judiciary operated independently from political influence. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated that “courts held those accountable who committed treason against the national will and will do so in the future,” adding that the judiciary would also act against those attempting to sabotage the Turkish economy and the well-being of the nation. When specifically questioned about claims that the detention was politically motivated, representatives from President Erdogan's office did not provide immediate comments. Days later, Erdogan spoke in favor of judicial independence and said the protests were a "disruption of public order".
  
  Subway lines and bus transportation were shut down in Ankara's Middle East Technical University Station during student protests.
  
  Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç defended the judiciary against accusations of political interference, stating that the decision to arrest İmamoğlu was not influenced by President Erdoğan and reaffirming the independence of the courts.