Arif Hiqmeti

Arif Hiqmeti, born Arif Neziri (1870s–1916), was one of the leaders of the Peasant Revolt in Albania.

Early life Arif Hiqmeti was born in 1870s in Lojane, a small village near Kumanovo in what is now North Macedonia, to an Albanian family. His father was a tradesman. Hiqmeti received the first lessons from a Muslim clergyman in the village. Since at a young age he showed intelligence and good communication skills. His family's powerful friends enabled him to study Law in Istanbul.

Ottoman service Due to his skills and knowledge of several languages, he later became a secret agent of the Ottoman Empire. During that time Hiqmeti showed a staunch support for the religious policies and nature of the empire, and a disapproval of nationalist ideals that were emerging among Balkan populations.

Haxhi Qamili Revolt After Albania declared independence, in 1914 Hiqmeti was involved in the Peasant Revolt led by Haxhi Qamili and which had as its goal the removal of Prince Wilhelm Wied from power. In 1916 Hiqmeti was shot dead by Albanian patriots from Dibra.

Legacy Hiqmeti is regarded by Albanians nowadays as a symbol of anti-democratic movements and misusage of religious ideals for personal profit.