Is it appropriate for a politician to be both an MP and a mayor or alderman at the same time? Critics say this type of double mandate represents an issue for democracy. Conversely, arguments in favour of dual mandates say the practice permits MPs to better represent local interests at national level, if they hold a position in local government at the same time. But can this representation of local interests in the Chamber really be called democratic?
Stéphanie Feipel of Centre for Citizenship Education (Zentrum fir politesch Bildung) says the resources invested in MPs and local elected officials have increased drastically in recent years. Although mayors’ duties have been adjusted, MPs have not benefited from a similar reorganisation, resulting in twice as many committees, meetings and parliamentary sessions as before.
In this sense, dual mandates are no longer suited to an MP’s modern activities, as Chamber representatives are already overwhelmed with duties. Feipel adds that the separation of power is also a questionable aspect of the practice, as the mayor or alderman’s executive power, and an MP’s legislative power, should ideally not be held by the same person.
RTL asked the parties standing in the upcoming elections on 8 October if dual mandates should be abolished. Here are their responses:
The LSAP, ADR, Fokus, Volt, déi Konservativ and déi Lénk say the practice should be abolished, due to the role of an MP being incompatible with other professional activities or mandates.
Déi Gréng and the CSV say dual mandates should be scrapped, but with some amendments: in order for MPs to give up dual mandates, there needs to be reorganisation at municipal level to ensure appropriate representation.
The Pirates are in favour of scrapping all dual mandates which exceed 40 hours of political leave - such as the positions of MP and Luxembourg City mayor.
The DP proposes reform and a debate on the practice, suggesting the position of mayor should be a full-time role.
Finally, the KPL says dual mandates should be maintained.
