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2mon ago

World

World

Facing a government crackdown on dissent, Turkey's protesters put aside their differences

ABC News
Summary
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Protesters range from the socialist left to the ultra-nationalist right, and from university students to retirees.

They are united by a sense that the government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has grown increasingly authoritarian.

They include supporters of popular Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu , and young people who see all politicians as ineffective.

The protests began after the government arrested Imamoglu on March 19 .

Around 300 protesters spent the Eid holiday in prison, separated from their families.

Lawyers for several protesters say students are held in overcrowded cells and face physical and verbal mistreatment.

Lawyers also fear that students could miss exams or be expelled as a “punishment” for taking part in the protests.