Turkey: Protests reported in Istanbul after officials void election results May 6 /update 1

Event

Demonstrations have been reported in Istanbul as of Monday evening (local time), May 6, in protest of the Supreme Election Council's (YSK) decision to invalidate the results of the March 31 Istanbul local elections. Gatherings are reportedly taking place in parts of Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, and Şişli districts.

Further protests related to the announcement are likely over the coming hours and days as election-related tensions remain high, notably in Istanbul. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected near any demonstrations. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.  

Context

On May 6, Turkey's Supreme Election Council (YSK) voided results from the March 31 local elections in Istanbul and ordered new local elections due to alleged voting irregularities. The date for the new election was not immediately released.

Tensions between political parties in Turkey have risen since candidates from the opposition Nation's Alliance - led by the Republican People's Party (CHP) and Good Party (İyi Party) - initially won the cities of Ankara and Istanbul, defeating candidates from the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and the far-right Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) during local elections on March 31.

Advice

Individuals in Turkey are advised to monitor local developments, refrain from discussing domestic political affairs in public (including on social media), avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.