THE CYPRUS MUKHTARI
WHAT IS A MUKHTARI?
The Mukhtari meaning in English probably best translates to local councillor. Whilst the office of the Mukhtari is a remnant from Cyprus’s past, today it performs an important role in the running of most local issues on the island. The original name of ‘Mukhtar’ became Mukhtari when it reached Cyprus. An Arabic concept, adopted by the Ottoman Turks, it was introduced to Cyprus in the late 16th century when the Ottomans conquered the island. A Mukhtari was installed in nearly every town and village on the island and they have retained their position till today. A very loose meaning of the word Muhktar translates to ‘the chosen’ in Arabic and back then, the Mukhtari’s office used to include up to four Azades, who acted as the Mukhtari’s assistants and they normally consisted of a band of village or town elders.
LOCAL ELECTIONS
The Mukhtari’s office was typically elected every two years and the Mukhtari and his Azades would work closely with the local constabulary and the local religious institiutions. They also appointed rural constables, known as Agrofylakes to monitor the day-to-day running of the village or town quarter. Today, the role of a Mukhtari has become a purely administrative one, but 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, when the British establishment decided to amend the electoral procedure. The British decided that district councils should choose only nominated persons from a special list. The new system meant that villages or town quarters would put forward a list of who they thought would be suitable candidates and 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 criterea for the appointment of a Mukhtari and issued a set of new criterea, which included some of the following pre-requisites,
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.
A religious leader, teacher, doctor 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 own job requirements.
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A LOCAL UPRISING
A local uprising in 1931, led to the burning of the Governor’s house in Nicosia. Evidence linking this uprising with a number of local Mukhtari led the Governor changing the rules of appointment once again. He decided to rule by decree and he went on to appoint all new Mukhtari himself. This meant that local people could no longer influence any Mukhtari nominations.
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A FIGHT FOR FREEDOM
The British establishment restored the vote for local people to choose their own Mukhtari after World War Two, but in 1955, the advent of EOKA and their struggle for independence, adversely impacted the role of the Mukhtari on the island. All Mukhtari were encouraged to resign their position in protest to British rule and demonstrate their solidarity with EOKA and many did. This deeply effected the British administrative system at the time and the strike only ended when Cyprus gained its independence in 1960. The role of the Mukhtari was restored and community councils 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 by employing a consensual or participatory method, often involving an election. The Mukhtari is usually a local resident of the constituency that he or she represents and the focal point of all local issues. The office of the Mukhtari presides over all day-to-day issues and the running of all local council services.
THE MUKHTARI TODAY
A Mukhtari today plays a intergral role in the local administration of community affairs. The Mukhtari represents and advocates for the interests of the residents within their jurisdiction. They serve as a vital link between the government and the community, ensuring that the needs and concerns of the local people are effectively communicated and addressed. Furthermore, the Mukhtari is often involved in the organisation of local community events, social programs, and public initiatives aimed at promoting civic engagement and solidarity among residents. They often work to foster a sense of unity and belonging within the community, encouraging active participation and collaboration among its members.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
One of the primary responsibilities of a Mukhtari is to oversee the registration of residents and the issuance of various official documents, such as birth certificates, licenses and certificates, and residency permits. They also play a key role in maintaining local records and archives, which are essential for administrative and legal purposes. Some of a Mukhtari’s common duties also include 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 accidents and keeping records of all births and deaths. Their official stamp is relevant and can be used to authenticate documentation, much like a doctor or solicitor.
LOCAL DISPUTES
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 individuals or families in need who can access relevant resources and assistance through their office.
