It also transpired that the idea had been suggested long ago and has been energetically discussed by a narrow circle of the working group, as well as in the Main Legal Department under the president, in the Constitutional Court and "at the top political level," Mr. Shuvalov said. Deputy Mokry, the chairman of the State Duma's local government committee, said it would be impossible to appoint mayors without flouting the constitution. Moreover, the possibility is precluded by "some international documents we have signed, in particular, the European Charter of Local Self-Government."
According to Nezavisimaya Gazeta, the Kremlin has decided to halt the discussion of the appointment of mayors along the lines of the gubernatorial scheme, as it is inadequately substantiated in terms of law. But the issue has not been removed from the agenda altogether; in early October, the State Duma received a legislative initiative from the State Council (parliament) of Bashkortostan, where mayors have long been appointed.
"We will choose a 'soft model,'" said Alexander Ivanchenko, head of the Independent Institute of Elections. "The regional heads will be granted control functions and the right of legislative initiative. There will not be a direct subordination [of mayors] but the authorities will really control the operation of municipal governments. This will put an end to the people's ability to decide issues of local significance at meetings and referendums. This may be a respite before a breakthrough to completing the vertical system of power a year from now."
