Uzbekistan Senate Expands Powers of Local Councils

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Senate of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan has considered and approved a law introducing amendments and additions to the Law “On State Power in Localities.” The document aims to further strengthen the role of local representative bodies and improve the system of governance at the regional level.

During discussions, senators noted that one of the key objectives of reforms in the New Uzbekistan agenda is to expand popular representation and increase the effectiveness of local Kengashes of People’s Deputies in addressing socio-economic issues. It was emphasized that in recent years their powers have been gradually expanded as part of a broader policy of decentralization and increased accountability of regional authorities.

The adopted law is aimed at improving the organizational structure of local Kengashes and strengthening mechanisms of parliamentary oversight over executive authorities at the local level. Special attention is given to ensuring more stable and independent functioning of representative bodies.

According to the document, the structure of local Kengashes will include the position of deputy chairman, who will also head the Kengash secretariat. This official is granted powers to appoint and dismiss staff of the apparatus, which is intended to ensure institutional independence from local executive bodies.

In addition, a Presidium of the Kengash will be established to ensure continuity of work between sessions. It will include the chairman, his deputy, heads of standing committees, and leaders of party factions.

One of the key innovations is the introduction of a “Kengash hour,” during which deputies will be able to promptly hear reports and responses from heads of local authorities and organizations on urgent issues affecting the population. In some cases, urgent matters may first be considered by the Presidium and later approved at a plenary session.

According to senators, the law creates a legal foundation for strengthening checks and balances at the local level, improving parliamentary oversight, and enhancing the role of Kengashes in addressing territorial issues. Following consideration, the document was approved by the Senate of the Oliy Majlis.