Rushdi al-Kikhya

Rushdi al-Kikhya (1899–14 March 1987) was a Syrian political leader who played a significant role in the country's politics during the mid-20th century.

Early Life and Education

Kikhya was born in Aleppo, Syria in 1899 to an old Aleppo family. He received his primary education in Aleppo before being sent by his father to follow his studies at the Islamic College in Beirut in 1910. Later, he studied law at the University of Sorbonne in Paris.

Career

Kikhya was elected as a member of the Syrian Parliament (MP) five times: in 1936, 1943, 1947, 1949, and 1954. He served as the Speaker of the Parliament of Syria between 1949 and 1951. In addition to his parliamentary roles, Kikhya also held the position of Minister of Interior in 1949.

Founding of the People's Party

In 1948, Kikhya founded the People's Party with Nazem al-Qudsi and Mustafa Bey Barmada. The party was a significant political force in Syria during this period.

Conflict with the Bloc Leadership

Kikhya clashed with the Bloc leadership in 1939 over their failure to prevent Turkey's annexation of the Sanjak of Alexandretta, a territory in northern Syria that had once been part of the Ottoman Empire. This conflict led to Kikhya's separation from the National Bloc, which he had joined since its formation in 1927.

Support for the Coup

Kikhya supported the coup that ousted Husni al-Za'im in August [no specific date mentioned].

Leadership and Refusal of Presidency

Kikhya headed the Syrian Parliament between 1949 and 1951. He refused to take over as President of the Republic and Prime Minister several times during his career.

Death

Rushdi al-Kikhya died on 14 March 1987 in Nicosia, Cyprus.