20 Mar, 19:51

Citizens rally in support of mayor Imamoglu in Ankara, Istanbul

Large groups of young people and students are taking part in the rally

ANKARA, March 20. /TASS/. Several thousand people have gathered in a public park in front of Istanbul City Hall to show their support for Ekrem Imamoglu, the detained mayor of the metropolis.

The rally is taking place despite a ban on mass rallies and marches imposed by the Istanbul Governor's Office.

Large groups of young people and students are taking part in the rally. Many participants came with Turkish flags and banners of the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), which Imamoglu is a member of. Party leaders, particularly its chairman Ozgur Ozel, as well as Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavas addressed the crowd.

It is also chanting slogans in support of Imamoglu. The rally is proceeding peacefully, under tight security. The area around the city hall and the Sarachane Park, where people have congregated, is completely enclosed by police barriers. All attendees are searched upon entering the area.

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