North Cyprus Political System

Government
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is a democratic, secular republic based on the principles of social justice and the rule of law. The Constitution provides for a parliamentary system with a president as head of state, and a council of ministers composed of a prime minister and 10 ministers. Legislative power is vested in the Legislative Assembly, composed of 50 deputies elected by universal suffrage for a period of five years. Judicial power is exercised through independent courts.

The President
The President is elected for a period of five years. He has to be of Cypriot parentage. There is also a five-year residence qualification. He has to be over thirty years of age. He must also be a graduate of an institution of higher education. In case of vacancy in the office of President, or in case of his temporary absence, the Speaker of the Republican Assembly deputizes for him. H.E. Rauf R. Denktas became the first President of the TRNC on 15 November 1983. He was later re-elected in June 1985, April 1990 and April 1995.

Council of Ministers
Council of Ministers appointed by president on the advice of the prime minister. The present government is a coalition consisting of the Republic and Turkish Party and Democrat Party.

Foreign Missions in Northern Cyprus

Australian Representative
Tel: 2277332

French Cultural Association
Tel: 2283328

German Representative
Tel: 2275161

Turkish Embassy
Tel: 2272314
Fax: 2282209

UK Representative
Tel: 2283861
Fax: 2287054