I am adopting a progressive approach to the reform and development of local government in accordance with the Programme for Government. Building on certain decisions already taken in relation to local government structures, I intend to bring wider policy proposals to Government shortly, with particular attention being given to strengthening local government structures generally at regional, county and sub-county levels and expanding the role of local government.
The proposals will also reflect work under way in relation to alignment of local and community development with local government and efficiency implementation. They will also broadly map out further aspects of the local government system on which reform proposals will be considered, including a range of governance matters such as local political and executive leadership and the balance between elected members and the executive in the performance of functions. In that context, I intend to consider further the concept of a directly elected mayor and its relationship with the local government system.