UNMIK/PR/290
After several weeks of discussions, the Interim Administrative Council today endorsed a draft regulation on the structure and functions of municipal administrations throughout Kosovo.
There are 30 municipalities in Kosovo, which the regulation, if approved by the United Nations in New York and signed by SRSG Bernard Kouchner, would be given considerable self-governance.
Along with the regulation on municipal elections, signed by the SRSG on Sunday, the two legal cornerstones for the fall elections will have been put in place, Dr. Kouchner told media after today's meeting.
The draft regulation, in accordance with Security Council resolution 1244, establishes provisional institutions for democratic and autonomous self-government at the municipal level as a step in the progressive transfer of administrative responsibilities from UNMIK to local bodies. The regulation spells out the responsibilities and powers of the municipalities.
IAC member Rexhep Qosja declined to support the regulation, objecting to a provision that would place temporary "community offices" in those municipalities where a community which is not in the majority forms a substantial part of the population. These offices will ensure that community rights are protected and that all communities have equal access to public services at the municipal level.
Dr. Kouchner told media that the offices were necessary in areas inhabited by Serbs because they were the most threatened and targeted population, and that they were a "temporary solution," which would be reviewed every six months.
"I am looking forward to cancelling this project because they will no longer be needed," he said, adding that he plans to tour Kosovo to explain the new law.
In other business, the IAC discussed the municipal election law, which incorporates a proportional voting system, endorsed by most Kosovo political parties and the international community. The regulation also stipulates that the ballots in the municipal elections will have open lists of candidates, at the request of Kosovo political parties.