Turkey’s opposition party sweeps to local elections victory in snub to Erdoğan

Ekrem Imamolu secures unexpected second term as Istanbul's mayor, propelling the CHP to the centre of national politics

Turkey's main opposition party dealt an unexpected blow to Recep Tayyip Erdoan's rule on Sunday with a sweeping victory in Turkey's local elections, maintaining control of major cities including the capital, Ankara, and Istanbul, where Ekrem Imamolu secured a second term as mayor.

My dear Istanbulites, you opened the door to a new future today," Imamolu told overjoyed supporters of his opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) while declaring victory. Starting from tomorrow, Turkey will be a different Turkey. You opened the door to the rise of democracy, equality and freedom ... You ignited hope at the ballot box."