Prefectural Self-Governments
Established in 1994, the Prefectural Self-Governments marked a significant shift in regional administration. This system replaced the previous prefectural model, where both the councils and the prefects were appointed directly by the central government, moving instead toward a model of local autonomy and democratic representation.
Key Facts
- Established in 1994 to replace government-appointed prefectures.
- Prefectural councils consisted of 21 to 37 members.
- Elections were held every four years.
- The Prefect served as the president of the winning electoral combination.
- A first-round victory required more than 42% of the vote.
Organizational Structure
The governance of a prefecture was centered around the Prefectural Council (νομαρχιακό συμβούλιο). This body was composed of 21 to 37 members and was led by the Prefect (νομάρχης), while a Council President (πρόεδρος) presided over the proceedings.
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Supporting Administrative Organs
Beyond the main council, several other organs ensured the functionality of the prefecture:
- Prefectural Committee: This body consisted of the Prefect (or an appointed assistant) and 4 to 6 members elected by the Prefectural Council.
- Provincial Council: A secondary administrative body supporting regional needs.
- Eparchos: Also known as the Sub-prefect or eparch (έπαρχος), serving as a localized administrative authority.
Additionally, Super-prefectures operated with their own dedicated organs, including their own Council, Committee, and Super-prefect.
The Electoral Process
Prefectural councillors were chosen through public elections held every four years. To ensure a balance of representation, a specific seat allocation system was used: three-fifths of all seats were awarded to the winning combination that secured a majority, while the remaining two-fifths were distributed among other parties via a proportional system.
The Prefect was the president of the victorious electoral combination. A combination was declared victorious in the first round if it attained more than 42% of the vote. In instances where no combination reached this threshold, a second round of voting was held between the two combinations that received the highest number of votes in the first round.
| Organ/Role | Composition/Requirement | Key Function/Note |
|---|---|---|
| Prefectural Council | 21 to 37 members | Primary governing body |
| Prefectural Committee | Prefect + 4 to 6 members | Executive support |
| Prefect | President of winning combination | Leader of the prefecture |
| Eparchos | Sub-prefect | Local administrative officer |
| Election Cycle | Every 4 years | Publicly elected |
Frequently Asked Questions
When were the Prefectural Self-Governments formed?
They were formed in 1994, replacing the system where prefects and councils were appointed by the government.
How many members served on a Prefectural Council?
A Prefectural Council was made up of between 21 and 37 members.
What was the threshold for winning the prefectural election in the first round?
A combination had to attain more than 42% of the vote to be declared victorious in the first round.
What happened if no combination reached the 42% threshold?
A second round of elections took place between the two combinations that received the most votes in the first round.
How were the seats in the Prefectural Council distributed?
Three-fifths of the seats went to the winning majority combination, and two-fifths were distributed to other parties based on a proportional system.