Gjini warns of municipalities’ protest: Weakening local government undermines services for citizens

Municipalities in Kosovo will protest tomorrow, September 1, in Pristina, demanding that their powers and rights guaranteed by law be respected. The announcement was made by the mayor of the Municipality of Gjakova, Ardian Gjini.

According to Gjini, the central government is making it more difficult for municipalities to exercise their responsibilities. He described this action as unlawful and politically motivated.

Among the problems cited by Gjini are budget cuts, the exclusion of more than 3,100 teachers from financial planning, the lack of compensation for damage caused by natural disasters, the centralization of inspectorates, and the imposition of restrictions on municipal property.

“Weakening the municipality leads to the loss of services that citizens receive every day, while taking away its powers undermines local democracy,” Gjini said.

He called on citizens to take part in the protest, emphasizing that this is not an issue concerning only mayors and municipal administrations, as it directly affects the public and the services provided to it.

The protest is scheduled to take place tomorrow, September 1, starting at 11:00 a.m. in Skanderbeg Square in Pristina.