One of the pivotal figures in Turkish Cypriot political history, Founding President Rauf Raif Denktaş, is being honoured today, marking the 13th anniversary of his passing, with ceremonies and events reflecting his legacy.
The first commemoration ceremony will be held at the Rauf Raif Denktaş Mausoleum at 10:08 AM, followed by a second ceremony at the Atatürk Cultural Center in Lefkoşa.
The event at the mausoleum will begin with wreath-laying according to protocol, followed by a moment of silence and the national anthem. The ceremony will conclude with the signing of the Special Mausoleum Register and a speech by President Ersin Tatar.
At 10:45 AM, a second ceremony at the Atatürk Cultural Center will feature speeches by Denktaş’s son, Serdar Denktaş, and President Tatar.
Students from Esin Leman High School will perform a commemorative oratorio, adding an artistic touch to the solemn occasion.
A new documentary titled Denktaş: The Last Turk to Establish a State has been produced to honor the Founding President.
The documentary highlights Denktaş’s transformative leadership, which reshaped the fate of the Turkish Cypriot people through his determination during both struggles and negotiations. In addition to chronicling his 48 years of active political life, the film also sheds light on his human qualities.
Prominent figures featured in the documentary include President Ersin Tatar, former Presidents Mehmet Ali Talat and Derviş Eroğlu, former Speaker of Parliament Hakkı Atun, Denktaş’s son, former Foreign and Finance Minister Serdar Denktaş, former Foreign Minister Vedat Çelik, former Presidential Special Envoy Ergun Olgun and former President of the Cyprus TMT Fighters Association Yılmaz Bora.