Protests continue in Turkey, particularly in the capital, Istanbul, to show support for the mayor of Istanbul, arbitrarily imprisoned and accused of "terrorism." His fault? Campaigning for democracy and having announced his candidacy for the 2027 presidential election. Erdogan is careful to rule out any competition.
The pro-democracy and pro-Ekrem İmamoğlu demonstrations continue. More and more participants are letting Erdogan know what they think of his regime, even at the risk of being arrested. One smart guy, for example, has chosen a world-famous disguise to show his support. This way, he avoids being recognized... And he's clearly running fast.
A peaceful symbol?
It is therefore a Pikachu giant, the famous Pokémon, roaming the streets of Istanbul. It's even gradually becoming the mascot of these giant demonstrations. In these images, you see it in Antalya. But other "Pikachu" are popping up in different cities. The demonstrators applaud it, take photos...
Are we on the cusp of a "Pikachu" movement to help Turkey take a democratic turn?
« Some oppose such things, claiming that they make actions less serious. I disagree. On the contrary, I think these and similar things undermine the seriousness of government. Nothing could humiliate the government more than thousands of police officers chasing a Pikachu.", writes an Internet user on X.
« 30 years ago, the Japanese invented Pokémon. 30 years later, Pikachu is on the run from the police in Türkiye.", we can read on social networks. Who would have believed it?
