One of the most striking features of Turkish politics is our tendency to mythologize leaders rather than produce them. A political figure emerges, their achievements are exaggerated, their shortcomings are overlooked, and in a short time, they are transformed into a figure far greater than an ordinary politician. Then, that same society tears him down just as quickly.
Ekrem İmamoğlu’s story unfolded in much the same way.
He served as mayor in one of Istanbul’s relatively new districts. The district did not have major infrastructure problems; its roads, parks, and basic services were largely in place. The project that stands out most from his time as mayor is a park that was marketed under the brand name “Valley of Life.” Subsequently, thanks to media support, political strategies, and the circumstances of the time, his name became a fixture in Istanbul politics.
The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality mayoral election, however, was the result not only of the candidates but also of the political climate of the time. In the atmosphere of that time, a segment of the electorate that was dissatisfied with the ruling party was seeking change. Ekrem İmamoğlu was chosen as the symbol of this quest for change.
The real problem began after the election victory.
In Turkey, a healthy mechanism for criticism often fails to develop around politicians who are considered successful. On the contrary, critics are marginalized, those who question the status quo are silenced, and the leader gradually drifts away from reality. After a while, the person begins to believe the narrative presented to them. The small inner circle around them constantly reinforces this narrative.
The result is a political figure whom one segment of society views as a savior, but from whom another segment is increasingly distancing itself.
What happened today is not just the political story of one person. It is also a reflection of the way politics is conducted in Turkey. Because we talk about individuals, not institutions. We debate leaders, not platforms. We defend names, not principles.
Yet democracies are not built on saviors. The rise or fall of a single person should not determine a country’s fate.
Whatever the law requires regarding Ekrem İmamoğlu’s freedom must be enforced. No matter who the person is, the right to a fair trial is indisputable. However, we must also acknowledge this reality: In Turkey, there is more than one alternative to Erdoğan. This country has produced new leaders in the past, and it will continue to do so in the future.
Perhaps it’s time we stopped looking for a savior and learned to build strong institutions. Because people come and go, but institutions endure.