Mayor Imamoglu started his election campaign with the slogan “Full Speed Ahead to Serve Istanbul”

Imamoğlu started the election marathon with the slogan ” Full Speed Ahead in the Service of Istanbul”, at the launch event held at the Haliç Congress Center with the participation of CHP General Chairman Özgür Özel. During his speech, Imamoğlu, who took off his jacket, said, “Mr. Chairman, we haven’t worn that jacket since we took it off on May 6 (the date of the cancellation of the Istanbul election), and we won’t wear it until we come to power in Turkey.” These words received a great applause in the hall.

Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem Imamoğlu, invited to the stage after the special speech of CHP Chairman Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, started his speech by quoting the words of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk from the 10th Year Speech: “In a short time, we accomplished many great things. However, what we have done is never enough. Because we are obliged and determined to do much greater things.” Imamoğlu emotionally emphasized their achievements despite obstacles (originating from ruing power) and highlighted the change they brought to Istanbul in 2019.

Imamoğlu stated that when they took over the municipality, the financial situation was difficult, with only 6 million liras in the treasury, equivalent to an hour’s expenses for the city. He mentioned the economic crisis during the pandemic and emphasized that despite the challenges, they managed to increase the budget by eliminating waste.

Referring to their governing approach as the “Istanbul Model,” which focuses on public service, Imamoğlu outlined their goals to make Istanbul more “just, green, free, accessible, resilient to crises” and a center for entrepreneurship and creativity. He expressed confidence that they would win Istanbul again in the 2024 elections.

Imamoğlu concluded his speech by making a call to all political parties, inviting them to select teams based on merit to preserve Istanbul’s value and propel the city forward. He ended with the phrase “Full Speed Ahead, everything will be very beautiful.”