Government proposes holding the 2027 local elections under a new administrative structure

The 2027 general local elections are expected to be held under a new administrative structure, according to proposals presented by the Government of the Republic of Moldova on 2 November 2026. The legislative package on local public administration reform is still under public consultation, until 5 November 2026.

What would change for mayoralties?

Local public administration reform covers both territorial organization and the division of responsibilities between levels of administration, as well as their financing. According to the Government, the draft legislation aims to create mayoralties with more specialized staff and greater financial capacity to manage development projects.

Secretary General of the Government Alexei Buzu said that the package under consultation represents only the first stage of the reform. Amendments concerning local public finances, the responsibilities of authorities and the delivery of services are expected to be prepared at a later stage.

What proposals on funding and the transition are being discussed?

The Government is considering incentives for local authorities that increase their own revenues, along with mechanisms to allow communities to retain more revenue in their budgets. Discussions have also included financial support for preparing and carrying out infrastructure projects during the amalgamation process.

Local authority representatives raised the issues of the reform timetable, the minimum threshold of 3,000 residents and possible exceptions for localities with specific characteristics. They also put forward proposals on legal and financial guarantees for communities, and discussed the need to prepare for the transition period.

How can recommendations be submitted?

Mayors, elected local officials, civil society representatives and interested citizens can take part in consultations on the future organization of local government. Recommendations can be submitted at public consultations, as comments on the particip.gov.md platform or by email to primariiputernice@gov.md.

The Government discussed the proposals with the European Center for Local Administration, the Congress of Local Authorities of Moldova and the Union of District Councils of Moldova. The institution also announced discussions with representatives of parliamentary factions, extra-parliamentary parties, academia and civil society.