THE CYPRUS MUKHTARI
WHAT IS A MUKHTARI?
A ‘Mukhtari’ best translates to a local councillor today, and the office of this official is a remnant from Cyprus’s past. The concept of a Muhktar was adopted by the Ottoman Turks who then introduced the office to Cyprus in the late 16th century after they conquered the island. Muhktari have retained their position till today and their office still performs an important role in the running of most local issues on the island today.
ARABIC IN ORIGIN
Originally an Arabic concept, A very loose meaning of the word Muhktar translates to ‘the chosen’. The original name of Mukhtar became Mukhtari in Cyprus and this type of official was installed in nearly every town and village across the island under Ottoman rule. The Mukhtari’s office back then used to include up to four Azades. They acted as the Mukhtari’s assistants and they normally consisted of a band of village or town elders.
LOCAL ELECTIONS
The Mukhtari’s office would typically be elected every two years. The Mukhtari and his Azades would then work closely with the local constabulary and the local religious institiutions. One of their responsibilities was to appointed rural constables. these were known as ‘Agrofylakes’ and they would monitor the day-to-day running of the village or town quarter.
A MULTIFACETED ROLE
Today, the role of a Mukhtari has become a purely administrative one. It is still multifaceted and includes not only administrive affairs, but social, and diplomatic duties conducted on behalf of the local community.
A BRITISH AFFAIR
The Mukhtari were chosen and elected by people from their local village or town quarter up until 1923. After this, the British establishment decided to amend the electoral procedure. They decided that district councils should choose only nominated persons from a special list. This new system meant that villages or town quarters would put forward a list of who they thought would be suitable candidates. The local commissioner would then appoint the person who in their view, was most suitable or in most cases the least troublesome for their administration. The British also outlined new criteria for the appointment of the Mukhtari’s office. They issued a set of new criteria and these included some of the following pre-requisites.
NEW OFFICE CRITERIA
– An elected Mukhtari must be older than the age of twenty-five years and younger than sixty years of age.
– A person convicted of a serious crime cannot be elected as a Mukhtari or Aza.
– All religious leaders, teachers, doctors or anyone who is a Government employee or member of any Municipal or Administrative Council in Cyprus, cannot be elected as a Mukhtari or Aza.
– A Mukhtari should be able to read and write and be wealthy enough to extend hospitality to any visiting officials.
– A Mukhtari should be able to fully perform their duties outside of his job requirements.
A LOCAL UPRISING
A local uprising in 1931, led to the burning of the Governor’s house in Nicosia. Evidence linking this uprising to a number of local Mukhtari led the Governor changing the rules of appointment once again. It was decided to rule by decree and the governor went on to appoint all new Mukhtari himself. This meant that local people could no longer influence any Mukhtari nominations.
A FIGHT FOR FREEDOM
The British establishment restored the vote for local people to choose their own Mukhtari after World War Two. In 1955, the island’s struggle for independence came to a head, adversely impacting the role of the Mukhtari on the island. They were encouraged to resign their position in protest to British rule and several did. This act demonstrated a solidarity with the independnace movement that was spearheaded by EOKA. Their resignations deeply effected the British administrative system at the time. Â
A NEW INDEPENDENCE
Cyprus gained independence in 1960 and the role of the Mukhtari was restored. The role developed further and community councils, on the island, were built around the role in later years.
THE HEAD OF THE VILLAGE
A Mukhtari once elected becomes the head of a village or town council by default. They are usually selected using a consensual or participatory method. This often involves campaigning for votes, leading up to local elections.Â
A FOCAL POINT OF ALL LOCAL ISSUESÂ
The Mukhtari is usually a resident of the constituency that he or she goes on to represent. This allows them to fully appreciate and then focus on all local issues. The office also presides over all day-to-day issues and the running of all local council services.
A LOCAL ADMINISTRATION OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRSÂ Â
A Mukhtari today plays an intergral role in the local administration of community affairs. The office represents and advocates for the interests of the residents within their jurisdiction. They serve as a vital link between the government and the local community, ensuring that the needs and concerns of their constiruency are effectively communicated and addressed.Â
COMMUNITY EVENTS
The Mukhtari is often involved in the organisation of local community events, supporting social programs and public initiatives aimed at promoting civic engagement and solidarity among residents. The office of the Mukktari often aims to foster a sense of unity and belonging within the community. They do this by encouraging active participation and collaboration among members of the community.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
One of the primary responsibilities of a Mukhtari is to oversee the registration of residents. As well as the Muhktari is responsible for the issuance of various official documents, such as certificates, licenses, and residency permits. The office of the Muhktari also plays a key role in maintaining local records and archives that are essential for administrative and legal purposes.
COMMON DUTIES
Some of a Mukhtari’s common duties also include the following
– Controlling local budgets
– Managing postal services
– Maintaining the roads
– Keeping public order
– Overseeing petitions
– Certifying photos for passports
– Assisting with the collection of taxes
– Reporting serious crimes or accidentsÂ
– Keeping records of all births and deaths.Â
Their official stamp is relevant and can be used to authenticate documentation, much like a doctor or solicitor.
LOCAL DISPUTES & PEOPLE IN NEED
The Mukhtari’s office also serves as a trusted mediator when local disputes or conflicts arise. The Mukhtari will often seek to resolve issues through dialogue and arbitration. The Mukhtari’s office also provides guidance and support to local people in need and will help them access any relevant resources and assistance through their office.
