On behalf of Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Atatürk Research and Application Center (ATAUM), EMU Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe released a message on passing anniversary of Rauf Raif Denktaş, the founding President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The said message reads as follows:
“Leaders are individuals who are united by common values, ideas and principles, capable of motivating others to take action toward specific objectives, and able to guide people toward a shared goal. To be recognized as leaders within a community, these individuals must be enlightening, instructive, forward-looking, guiding and dependable, as well as able to offer innovative and practicable solutions to the problems the society faces.
Rauf Raif Denktaş, the founding and first President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, demonstrated all the qualities of an effective leader and statesman. He identified the internal and external challenges facing the community, developed practical, rational, and feasible solutions, and played a leading role in implementing radical changes. His steadfast defense of the rights, equality, and freedom of the Turkish Cypriot people, supported by the Republic of Türkiye, stands as clear evidence of his leadership and dedication.
Delivering his first address to the public at the age of 24, Rauf Raif Denktaş served as the President of the Cyprus Turkish Federation of Institutions. He was instrumental in guiding the Turkish Cypriots in their resistance against Enosis and EOKA, and was one of the founders of the Turkish Resistance Organization, a key force in this struggle. Following the 1963 events, Denktaş organized the Turkish resistance, secretly travelled to Erenköy to participate in the Erenköy Resistance, and after leading the Cyprus Turkish Administration, he assumed the roles of President of the Cyprus Turkish Federal State and President of the Assembly on 13 February 1975, following the 1974 Peace Operation. Ultimately, on 15 November 1983, he became the first President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Throughout his life, he played a vital role in numerous significant historical events crucial to the Turkish Cypriot community.
Rauf Raif Denktaş emerged as a prominent international figure due to the political role he assumed during the founding of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and through his approach and determined struggle for the Cyprus cause in 20th-century politics, he developed a unique and recognizable leadership style.
After being treated for organ failure diagnosed in 2012, Founding President Rauf Raif Denktaş passed away on 13 January 2012, at the age of 88. On the 14th anniversary of his passing, we remember him with deep respect, affection, gratitude, and longing.