The majority will address Parliament tomorrow. It will request changes to the special commission on territorial reform. The aim is to break the deadlock caused by the opposition’s absence.

Today marked the final deadline for the opposition to join the commission.

At today’s meeting, opposition members were absent. As a result, Co-Chair Arbjan Mazniku outlined the next steps. First, the majority will ask Parliament to add one Socialist Party member. Second, it will change the structure from co-chairs to a chair and a vice-chair.

According to Mazniku, this change will allow the commission to function. Meanwhile, the opposition will keep its eight seats.

Mazniku recalled the commission’s creation. It followed an opposition request. Therefore, the majority agreed to equal representation and co-chairs due to the reform’s importance.

However, the opposition has stayed away. As a result, the process has already lost nearly two months.

Next, the commission will reorganize its work. It will split into three large groups. Each group will cover four regions.

In February, members and experts will go into the field. They will hold public consultations across the country.

Then, in March, the commission will start thematic consultations. One group will focus on territory and governance. Another will address local government functions. The third will focus on financing.

After that, in April and May, the commission will begin drafting the law.

Mazniku stressed the urgency of the reform. Local elections are expected in April or May 2027. Therefore, the reform must be completed one year earlier. For this reason, the target deadline is July this year.

He also highlighted the reform’s purpose. It must strengthen local government. At the same time, it must help municipalities absorb EU funds and serve communities better.

“This reform cannot be done behind desks,” Mazniku said. “It requires broad public consultation and institutional cooperation.”

Finally, Mazniku emphasized inclusion. The opposition remains welcome at all stages. Nevertheless, the commission must move forward and start working.

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