Which are duties and competencies of a mayor?

Direct election of the mayor enables him/her extensive autonomy. The Law on Local Self-Government characterizes a clear distinction between the role of the Municipal Assembly (legislative power) and that of the mayor (executive power).

Competencies and duties of the mayor are listed under Article 58 of the LLSG. Among the main responsibilities belonging to the mayor is that this body shall continuously authorize and oversee execution of decisions taken by the municipality and financial administration of the municipality.

The mayor is responsible for overseeing of implementation of decisions and acts adopted by the municipal assembly and to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of the municipality properly. He or she also has the authority to represent the municipality and acts on its behalf. The scope of the mayor's responsibilities also includes the right to issue instructions and at the same time to make decisions.

The mayor appoints and dismisses all directors of directorates in charge of the management and heading of their departments in accordance with the mayor's strategic and political guidelines. Also, directors shall regularly report to the mayor on issues under their authority, and provide him/her with all the information and reports that are necessary in the decision-making process. This relationship enables the mayor to properly perform duties and responsibilities of the municipality and to represent it.

The municipal assembly also plays a role in the performance of the duties of the mayor as members of the municipal assembly shall set out general policies of the municipality. The municipal assembly and the mayor shall have the right to adopt acts and take measures for their implementation according to their respective competencies and in accordance with the constitutional and legal system of the Republic of Kosovo. Good relations, communication and cooperation between these two municipal institutions do reflect good, efficient and democratic governance as well as clear accountability to citizens.

Key areas of good governance of a mayor

The way in which a mayor listens to citizens and attends public meetings make a significant contribution to good governance. A well-run meeting that is inclusive and has high standards of governance relies on the mayor's approach to being a mayor for all. Mayors should have a good knowledge of legal requirements regarding civic participation.

Performing duties in a responsible manner also ensures that all members of the assembly shall have the opportunity to be heard. While not every decision is made as per the will of every member of the assembly, the decision concerned is accepted when they feel that they are involved in the decision-making.

Participation, communication, inclusion, consensus, mutual respect and listening are all important in promoting a sucessful work performance of the municipality.

Promoting good relations

Good relations are vital for good governance. Assembly members particularly rely on co-operation and peer support and on support of the administration to achieve their goals. This cooperation is based on good relations and understanding and acceptance of each role.

A municipal assembly member may request from the mayor information that is necessary for his/her work as a member, and therefore the mayor is expected to establish good working relations with assembly members

The mayor is in an ideal position to promote positive relations between various elements of local government by setting a good example. This includes relations between the mayor and members of the assembly, between the assembly and administration, and the mayor and the Government of the Republic of Kosovo.

It is important that the role of the mayor in exercising of his/her duties is being the leader of all, and not just of those who are supportive to him/her.