ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base
1973 Cypriot presidential election
1973 Cypriot Presidential Election
The 1973 Cypriot presidential election was a scheduled election that took place on 18 February 1973, but ultimately did not proceed due to the lack of opposition.
Electoral System
The President of the Republic of Cyprus was elected directly by the people through universal and secret ballot. The President's term of office was five years, commencing on the day of their establishment before the House of Representatives, where the elected president would give a renewed assurance.
When only one candidate applies for nomination, they are declared elected President of the Republic of Cyprus without a vote. In cases where multiple candidates are present, the candidate securing more than 50% of the valid votes is elected. If no candidate achieves the required majority, a re-election is held between the two candidates who received the most votes on the respective day of the next week.
Election Outcome
The only candidate to submit a nomination for the 1973 presidential election was Makarios III, who was the incumbent President at the time. As a result, no elections were held, and Makarios III was automatically declared president for another five-year term.
Notes
A separate election for Vice President of Cyprus took place, with Rauf Denktaş standing unopposed.