Pikachu seen protesting against Erdogan in Turkey, what happens next will leave you in splits. Watch viral video

Widespread protests have erupted in Turkey after the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu on charges of alleged links to terrorist organizations. Imamoglu, a key opposition leader and President Tayyip Erdogan’s main political rival, was detained earlier this week. His arrest has led to public outcry, with nearly 1,900 demonstrators reportedly detained during the protests.

Viral video of Pikachu costume protester sparks online reactions
Amid the ongoing unrest, a viral video has surfaced showing a protester dressed in an inflatable Pikachu costume fleeing from the police. Writer and political commentator Adam Schwarz shared the video on Bluesky, stating, “Pikachu was spotted amongst anti-Erdoğan protesters fleeing from police in Antalya, Turkey last night.” The clip was later reposted on X, where a user joked, “The Pokémon have risen against Erdogan.”


According to 404 Media, the video was first captured by Ismail Koçeroğlu, a photojournalist at Akdeniz University in Antalya. Alongside the original footage, an AI-generated image of Pikachu among the protesters has also gained traction on social media.

Imamoglu’s response and opposition’s stanceImamoglu, a leading figure in the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), addressed the public following his arrest. In a statement on X, he declared, “I will not give up.” His detention has intensified political tensions in Turkey, with opposition supporters rallying against the government’s actions.

Government’s justification for arrestJustice Minister Yilmaz Tunc defended the decision, stating, “We don't want the arrest of any politician, but if there is evidence of a violation then it can happen.” He added, “If we look at the gravity of the allegations, and as there is risk that evidence can be concealed, the judiciary has made a reasonable decision.” His remarks were made to international media representatives in Istanbul through a translator, reported Reuters.

As protests continue across the country, the arrest of Imamoglu is expected to play a significant role in shaping Turkey’s political landscape in the coming months.