Writing for Turkish news outlet T24, İmamoğlu revealed that he is being held in a 12-square-meter cell in Prison No. 9, where he continues to work on plans for Turkey's future despite harsh conditions. The popular opposition figure, seen as a potential presidential challenger, described his situation as a result of "a judiciary system that signs not for justice, but directly to punish."
The mayor's daily routine begins at 7:30 AM, with the courtyard gate opening at 8 AM, slightly expanding his confined space. Without access to technology, İmamoğlu spends his days reading, writing by hand, and meeting with lawyers, family members, and special visitors, including regular visits from CHP (Republican People's Party) leader Özgür Özel.
"My agenda is Turkey," İmamoğlu wrote, explaining that work on future government programs through the Presidential Candidacy Office occupies most of his time. These projects and reports on Turkey's future vision provide both "great responsibility and strong motivation."
In an emotional passage, İmamoğlu recalled a morning walk on Istanbul's iconic İstiklal Street after his 2019 mayoral victory, which was contested. He described encounters with citizens from all backgrounds - an AK Party supporter whose son convinced him to vote for İmamoğlu, a woman who flew from England to cast her ballot, and a young Kurdish man who thanked him for "bringing us together at the ballot box."
The imprisoned mayor has consistently emphasized his commitment to transparency and inclusivity throughout his 16-year political journey, from serving as a district mayor to becoming a metropolitan mayor, and now as a presidential hopeful. He highlighted his administration's social programs, including free milk for mothers, free transportation, nurseries, dormitories, student scholarships, and public kitchens, declaring, "I distribute the people's money to the people."
Despite his imprisonment, İmamoğlu remains optimistic about Turkey's future. "In the second century of our Republic, we will together build a democratic Turkey where everyone is equal and free," he wrote, promising to continue sharing his thoughts with citizens despite the walls separating them.
The letter concludes with İmamoğlu's signature phrase that became a rallying cry during his campaigns: "Everything will be wonderful," followed by a message of determination: "With determination and faith, in the light of reason, science, the Republic, democracy and justice."