The 9th nationwide local elections have concluded, marking a new phase for local governments. However, the elected officials will not immediately assume their roles as mayors, governors, or heads of local districts.
The official terms for the newly elected officials will begin on July 1 and last until June 30, 2030. The terms for local council members, local government heads, and education superintendents are all set for four years and are elected through direct, secret ballots by residents.
Following the elections, the 'elected official system' will take effect. Elected local government heads can establish a transition committee as soon as their election is confirmed. This committee will assess the organization, functions, and budget of the local government and prepare the new leader's policy direction.
The size of the transition committee is also legally defined. For cities and provinces, it can include up to 20 members, including a chair and vice-chair, while for cities, counties, and districts, it can have up to 15 members. The committee will exist from the time the official is elected until 20 days after the start of the local government head's term.
Thus, the month of June serves as a preparation period before the new local government officially launches. During this time, the elected officials will review key administrative issues, budget structures, operational conditions, and the feasibility of the pledges made during the election. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety has also distributed a manual for the operation of transition committees to local governments to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities for the 9th elected local governments.
Meanwhile, current officials will continue to bear administrative responsibilities until the end of their terms. The confirmation of the elected officials does not grant them immediate authority over approvals or personnel decisions. The new leaders will fully assume their powers starting July 1.
From the residents' perspective, the day after the election does not mean an immediate change in policy; rather, it marks the beginning of a period to gauge the direction of the new local government. It will become evident during this time how the slogans from the election translate into actual organizational changes, budget allocations, and implementation plans for the pledges made.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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