Imamoglu Removed from Courtroom After Disagreement with Judge

Ekrem Imamoglu, the suspended Mayor of Istanbul, was removed from the courtroom after a disagreement with the judge.The judge, Selcuk Aylan, called Imamoglu to the stand for his defense, but Imamoglu stated that he was not there for questioning, but to express his thoughts.

I could neither listen to my friend Fatih Keleş nor ask my questions. This is a violation of rights.

Imamoglu said, "I am not using my right to remain silent. For Ekrem Imamoglu, who is being tried for 2,000 years, to say 'I am being restricted' would harm the Turkish judiciary."

We are listening to your objections patiently. We did not cause the delay in this matter.

Imamoglu also said, "Your Honor, you are committing a serious violation of rights and causing great harm to the Turkish judiciary. You said July 9th without explanation." The judge replied, "No court makes statements about dates. Why are you avoiding defense?"