Mayor of Prizren to reopen meetings of the executive body

The Mayor of Prizren Municipality in his third term of governance as well continues the practice of closed meetings with heads of directorates. Closure of meetings of the executive branch has been one of the most controversial actions, at the same time more detrimental to local democracy undertaken in the second term of the Mayor. Since rendering such a decision, never an articulated and convincing reasoning in justifying such closure has been given.

This practice, which goes against the fundamental principles of transparent governance, is the best evidence that the Municipality of Prizren is failing to promote good governance standards. At meetings of the Mayor with municipal directors, most sensitive decisions are taken on the management of the municipal budget.

Transparency Forum expresses its discontent and dissent about the inability of the media, civil society organizations and citizens to partake in the meetings of the Mayor with municipal directors. This fencing off of municipal decision making poses the direct obstacle to the work of these stakeholders, who intend in enhancing public information. Read the media release.