The Growing Presence of Acting Mayors in Albania: A Democratic Challenge

In recent years, Albania has witnessed a steady increase in the number of acting mayors (kryetarë të komanduar). At first glance, this might seem like a mere technical or administrative matter. However, in reality, the implications are far more profound—directly affecting democracy at the local level, the quality of representation, and the legitimacy of public authority.

Why does this matter?

Local government is the closest level of governance to citizens. Decisions made by municipalities shape the quality of daily life, guide investments, and define the future of entire territories for decades. When a municipality is led by an acting mayor rather than an elected one, citizens lose the essential guarantee of democratic legitimacy. Authority is exercised without direct accountability to the people.

Risks of prolonged interim leadership

1. Weakening of democratic standards – Acting mayors are not elected by citizens, and their mandate is temporary. Extending their role beyond short emergencies undermines the very foundation of representative democracy.

2. Distorted decision-making – Strategic decisions with long-term consequences may be made without proper legitimacy. This creates the risk of irreversible mistakes in urban planning, infrastructure, and local development.

3. Erosion of public trust – Citizens who already feel distant from politics may become more skeptical and disengaged when they see that their leaders are appointed rather than chosen.

The urgency of the moment

We are currently at a critical juncture: municipalities across Albania are about to take decisions that will shape development for generations to come. If these decisions are made under interim leadership, the costs will be high and difficult to reverse. Local democracy must not be put on hold.

What should be done?

• Clear timelines: The law should set strict deadlines for how long an acting mayor can serve.

• Priority to elections: By-elections should be organized without delay, guaranteeing that citizens can choose their representatives.

• Strengthening local governance: Institutional reforms are needed to ensure that municipalities are not left in a state of prolonged provisional leadership.

Conclusion

Acting mayors (kryetarë të komanduar) may seem like a technical solution, but in reality, they represent a democratic challenge. Albania’s path toward stronger democracy and European integration requires commitment not only at the national level but also in the municipalities, where citizens most directly experience governance. Democracy cannot function properly without legitimate and accountable local leaders.

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