Ekrem Imamoglu, re-elected Istanbul mayor says, "Partisanship is over"

In the early morning hours of Monday, Ekrem Imamoglu, the re-elected mayor of Istanbul representing the main opposition party CHP, addressed the citizens of Istanbul.

At the outset of his speech, Imamoglu stated that there were no losers in the election, adding, "Where we are, there is no one alienated." 

After expressing gratitude to the voters, the re-elected mayor reflected, "I'm pondering the message the voters conveyed to us, to our opponents, and the government through the ballot."

While the crowd booed as he mentioned the nation's President, Imamoglu quickly stopped them and stated, "Partisanship is over."

Imamoglu subtly alluded to President Erdogan's recent criticism of the candidate, asserting, "Our citizens have signaled for us to forge ahead and persevere, not to retreat 'full throttle back' as suggested by others."

With a tactful pause, the re-elected mayor invited the crowd to complete the sentiment, prompting, "In what manner?" to which the crowd responded, "Forward" coherently.

He continued his speech by envisioning a brighter future, proclaiming that as the dawn breaks tomorrow, the air of Istanbul will be infused with the fragrances of 'democracy,' 'humanity,' and 'peace.'

Imamoglu made an announcement, revealing that the main opposition party, CHP, had secured victory in 11 additional district municipalities previously held by the ruling AK Party, in addition to the 14 districts already under opposition control, decisively securing 25 of 39 districts.

He emphasized that while these victories mark a momentous achievement, there are still several district municipalities where the outcome remains undecided.

Source: Newsroom