kaymakam

Kaymakam is the title of the chief civil administrator of a district (ilçe) in the Republic of Turkey. The office sits within the centralized administrative system and is responsible for implementing government policies and coordinating public services at the district level. The term has historical roots in the Ottoman Empire, where a similar official served as the district governor and deputy to the provincial authority.

Role and duties

The kaymakam represents the central government in the district and ensures the execution of national laws and regulations. They coordinate the work of government directorates, supervise public services, and oversee administrative matters within the district. The kaymakam works with local municipalities, including districts with elected mayors and councils, to harmonize policy implementation and service delivery. In matters of security and public order, the kaymakam liaises with police and gendarmerie authorities and may chair district-level coordination bodies.

Appointment and tenure

Kaymakams are appointed by the Ministry of Interior from among senior civil servants. They are assigned to a district for a defined term, with the possibility of reassignment or promotion within the civil service. The position is subordinate to the provincial governor (vali), who oversees districts within a province and can provide guidance or direction as needed.

Historical context

In Ottoman administration, the concept of a district governor named kaymakam was used to manage districts under the overarching authority of a provincial governor. The modern Turkish use retains the function of steering district administration while aligning with the country’s contemporary administrative framework.