Deaths on January 15

Fazıl Küçük, Cypriot journalist and politician (b. 1906)

Dr. Fazıl Küçük, born on 14 March 1906, and passing away on 15 January 1984, was a profoundly significant figure in Cypriot history. A prominent Turkish Cypriot politician, he is primarily remembered for his pivotal role as the first Vice President of the Republic of Cyprus. His tenure, from the country's independence in 1960 until his retirement in 1973, was marked by dedicated efforts to represent and safeguard the rights and interests of the Turkish Cypriot community within the newly established bi-communal state.

Early Life and Formative Years

Fazıl Küçük was born in Nicosia, then part of the British Empire, into a family deeply rooted in the Turkish Cypriot community. His early life and education laid the groundwork for his future political activism. After completing his local schooling, he pursued higher education in medicine, a profession he would practice before fully dedicating himself to politics. He undertook his medical studies abroad, first in Istanbul, Turkey, and subsequently in Lausanne, Switzerland. This international exposure broadened his perspective and equipped him with a deep understanding of European political thought, which would later inform his approach to Cyprus's complex communal issues.

A Powerful Voice: Journalism and Political Ascension

Dr. Küçük's political career was intrinsically linked to his dedication to public discourse. Recognizing the need for a strong voice for the Turkish Cypriot community, he founded the influential newspaper "Halkın Sesi" (Voice of the People) in 1942. This publication became a crucial platform for articulating Turkish Cypriot views, concerns, and aspirations during a period of intense political change and increasing inter-communal tensions in Cyprus. Through "Halkın Sesi" and his leadership roles in various Turkish Cypriot organizations, including the Cyprus Turkish National Union, he rapidly emerged as a leading advocate for his community's rights and self-determination against British colonial rule and rising Greek Cypriot nationalism.

The Architect of the Republic and Vice Presidency

As Cyprus moved towards independence from British rule, Fazıl Küçük played a central role in the complex negotiations that shaped the future of the island. He was a key Turkish Cypriot delegate in the crucial Zurich and London Agreements of 1959. These agreements laid the constitutional foundations for the independent Republic of Cyprus, establishing a unique power-sharing arrangement designed to protect both Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. Under this constitution, the position of Vice President was specifically reserved for a Turkish Cypriot, serving alongside the Greek Cypriot President. Dr. Küçük was the unanimous choice for this vital role, assuming the Vice Presidency upon the Republic's declaration of independence in August 1960. He served alongside Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of Cyprus.

His tenure as Vice President was challenging, marked by frequent constitutional crises and growing inter-communal strife, particularly after 1963. Dr. Küçük consistently championed the constitutional rights of the Turkish Cypriots and worked tirelessly to ensure their representation and security within the framework of the Republic. Despite immense difficulties, he remained committed to the bi-communal structure of the state as envisioned by the 1960 Constitution.

Legacy and Enduring Influence

Dr. Fazıl Küçük retired from the Vice Presidency due to ill health in 1973, succeeded by Rauf Denktaş, who would later become the founding president of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. He passed away in 1984, leaving behind a profound legacy. He is widely revered among Turkish Cypriots as a national hero and a steadfast defender of their rights and identity. His contributions were instrumental in shaping the political landscape of Cyprus and advocating for the Turkish Cypriot community's place and future on the island. His unwavering commitment to a just and equitable future for all Cypriots continues to be a subject of historical study and political discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dr. Fazıl Küçük

Who was Dr. Fazıl Küçük?

Dr. Fazıl Küçük was a prominent Turkish Cypriot politician, physician, and journalist who served as the first Vice President of the Republic of Cyprus from 1960 to 1973. He is remembered as a key figure in the Turkish Cypriot community's struggle for rights and self-determination during the British colonial period and the early years of independent Cyprus.

What was Dr. Fazıl Küçük's role in the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus?

Dr. Küçük played a crucial role as a leading Turkish Cypriot negotiator in the Zurich and London Agreements of 1959. These agreements led to the creation of the Republic of Cyprus as a bi-communal state, and he subsequently became its first Vice President, a position constitutionally reserved for a Turkish Cypriot.

When did Fazıl Küçük serve as Vice President of Cyprus?

He served as the Vice President of the Republic of Cyprus from its independence in August 1960 until his retirement due to health reasons in February 1973.

What was the significance of the "Halkın Sesi" newspaper?

"Halkın Sesi" (Voice of the People), founded by Dr. Fazıl Küçük in 1942, was a highly influential newspaper that served as a vital platform for articulating the political views, concerns, and aspirations of the Turkish Cypriot community. It played a significant role in fostering Turkish Cypriot political awareness and advocating for their rights.

How is Fazıl Küçük remembered today?

Dr. Fazıl Küçük is widely regarded by the Turkish Cypriot community as a national hero and a foundational figure who tirelessly championed their rights, identity, and security. His legacy as a steadfast defender of Turkish Cypriot interests remains a central part of their historical narrative.