Athens Mayor Haris Doukas has once again voiced unwavering support for Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, emphasising solidarity amid ongoing political challenges in Turkey.
In a powerful message, Doukas declared, “We have a duty not to remain silent,” as he joined 14 European mayors in calling for action from Turkish authorities.
A Unified European Stance
Doukas expressed his backing through a public statement and a social media post, highlighting a joint declaration signed with fellow European mayors, including Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo. Additionally, he sent a letter to the European Socialist Party (PES) within the European Committee of the Regions, urging a resolution in support of Imamoglu. “Ekrem, you are not alone,” Doukas stated, adding, “I’ve requested the PES Presidency to issue a supportive resolution from the Committee of the Regions’ plenary session.”
Demands to Turkish Authorities
The declaration, co-signed by Doukas, Hidalgo, and 12 other mayors, outlines clear demands to Turkey’s government:
– Immediate release of Imamoglu and other detained opposition officials arrested for political reasons.
– An end to judicial prosecutions, political pressure, and attacks on local governance.
– Respect for democratic freedoms and human rights in Turkey.
European Mayors Rally Together
Doukas underscored Athens’ commitment to supporting initiatives through networks like B40 and Eurocities. “European mayors are uniting our forces,” he noted, signaling a collective stand against the erosion of democratic principles. This show of solidarity reflects growing concern among European leaders over Turkey’s treatment of elected officials, with Imamoglu’s case seen as a critical test of local autonomy and free expression.
For the international Greek diaspora, this story resonates as a call to uphold shared democratic values, bridging Athens and Istanbul in a shared fight for justice.