15.07.2026 16:00
A holiday photo on a luxury yacht allegedly belonging to Ekrem Imamoglu's son, Selim Imamoglu, has sparked major controversy. The yacht's display of the flag of the Marshall Islands, a flag-of-convenience status that offers tax and inspection advantages in maritime practice, has drawn reactions amidst Turkey's economic crisis agenda, while no statement has yet been made from Imamoglu's side regarding the claims.
The holiday photo allegedly shared by Selim İmamoğlu, son of detained Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, from his personal Instagram account has sparked widespread reaction on social media.
"FLAG OF CONVENIENCE" YACHT
In the rapidly spreading holiday photo, the flag of the Marshall Islands, described in the maritime industry as a "flag of convenience" and providing various advantages, including tax exemptions and flexible regulatory standards, was seen waving on the yacht.
WHAT IS A "FLAG OF CONVENIENCE"?
In maritime trade and luxury yachting, this refers to the practice of vessel owners registering their ships under the flags of countries such as the Marshall Islands, Panama, or Liberia to avoid high taxes, fees, and strict regulations in their own countries. This provides significant financial advantages to yacht owners.
SILENCE MAINTAINED
Regarding the photo that has sparked significant controversy in the shadow of Turkey's current economic crisis and ongoing political polemics, no official statement or denial has yet been made from Selim İmamoğlu's side or the İmamoğlu family.