President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko held a meeting on February 6 concerning the improvement of the legal regulation of the status of chairpersons of basic-level executive committees, as reported by a BELTA correspondent.
"Today, we must finally discuss all issues related to enhancing the role of district and city executive committees, the so-called basic level, and their chairpersons," noted Alexander Lukashenko, opening the meeting.
The Head of State recalled that a draft decree was considered at a meeting of the Presidium of the All-Belarusian People's Assembly in November 2024. Many proposals were made then, including the suggestion not to issue a Presidential decree but to adopt a law.
"The draft law has been prepared and submitted to me for introduction to the House of Representatives. Let's review it once more to ensure all pressing issues are reflected in it and that the problems hindering the effective functioning of district and city executive committee chairpersons are resolved," said the Belarusian leader. "At the same time, I want to warn everyone that there is no need to cling to certain powers and one's status at the top, to avoid transferring some powers downwards. This is absolutely unacceptable. We must proceed from the interests of our state."
Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that during the discussion of the draft document, a final decision should be made on its form and content so that chairpersons are further motivated for results and work effectively. The Head of State inquired about the personnel, economic, and other powers proposed to be granted to local authorities to enable them to address pressing issues and play a more significant role in the development of their regions, and whether a draft law is needed for this or if a presidential decree would be more effective.
"The main thing is to make principled, relevant, and in-demand decisions. We need to enhance the role of this fundamental link, which directly interacts with people in its work. Perhaps the powers are sufficient. If so, tell me. I have outlined the direction we will take. Do not be afraid to grant district and city executive committee chairpersons appropriate functions and powers. The demands on them will be serious, the pressure on them will be very serious, but we must give them the levers," the President concluded.