Road closures on Istanbul's streets and prohibition of public gatherings from September 7th to 10th

In a move that has sparked political tensions and debates within the Main opposition CHP, the Istanbul Governor's Office has announced a temporary ban on public gatherings in several districts, including Besiktas, Beyoglu, Eyupsultan, Kagithane, Sariyer, and Sisli. The ban, which will be in effect from 8 p.m. on Sept. 7, 2025, until 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 10, 2025, is a response to the controversial appointment of a trustee to the Istanbul branch of the CHP.

The announcement does not specify the reason for the ban, citing public order regulations. The governor's office emphasized the need to maintain public order with the implementation of barricades around the CHP provincial building. Security forces have set up these barricades to prevent civilians from approaching the building.

The barricades have sparked further political tensions and debates within the CHP. Party leaders and activists have expressed concerns that the decision could affect upcoming congress proceedings and public demonstrations. CHP lawmaker Ali Mahir Basarir has called on citizens to join demonstrations in response to the trustee appointment.

The opposition party CHP appointed Bünyamin Demirkol as a trustee to the Istanbul branch of the Republican People's Party, a decision made through a court ruling in September 2024. The CHP continues to move to block a potential trustee with an emergency congress.

It is important to note that the ban does not affect private gatherings or events held in enclosed venues. The ban covers all rallies, press statements, open-air meetings, demonstrations, tent setups, booths, sit-ins, signature campaigns, commemorations, handout distribution, and the hanging of banners or posters.

The Main opposition CHP will hold an extraordinary congress after the Istanbul congress was annulled. The barricades have been set up following the announcement of the temporary ban on public gatherings. This situation underscores the ongoing political tensions in Istanbul and the CHP's efforts to maintain its democratic principles in the face of challenging circumstances.