Mirziyoyev highlights Senate's priority task

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized that the Senate's primary role should be to provide comprehensive support to local councils. He made this statement on November 19 during the first meeting of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis.

The President noted a key political reform where the People's Deputies of regional and Tashkent city councils are now led by council chairpersons elected from among the deputies, rather than by mayors. He described this development as the realization of a 30-year aspiration of the people.

Mirziyoyev highlighted significant progress in decentralization, stating that 33 powers of governors were transferred to councils this year, with an additional 17 powers planned for transfer. Among the new responsibilities, local councils are set to gain the authority to approve seven types of local levies, including surcharges on drinking water tariffs and rental payments in state facilities and markets. Oversight of regional executive bodies will also be enhanced through mechanisms like board inquiries and reviews.

The President proposed that local councils hold press conferences every six months to report on their activities, fostering transparency and accountability.

Earlier, the first meetings of the Legislative Chamber and the Senate were scheduled for November 18-19 in Tashkent.