Dual power rules in Narva: two mayors work side by side

An unusual situation has emerged in Narva where two people simultaneously hold the position of mayor – Katri Raik and Jaan Toots. Mayor Katri Raik is dismayed by the situation, saying that the local authority should be able to manage its own affairs.

Narva is currently experiencing a unique dual power situation – the position of mayor in the border city is being held simultaneously by two people. Katri Raik and Jaan Toots work literally side by side in adjacent offices, with each claiming to be the legitimate mayor.

Mayor dismayed by the situation

"I fully agree that the only normal way would be to reach an agreement, but these men cannot agree with each other, it's a hopeless undertaking," Raik said, referring to the political deadlock that has created this confusing situation. She stressed that a local authority should be able to manage its own affairs, yet this opportunity is being taken away in a peculiar manner.

Border city politics becomes murky

According to Raik, it is regrettable that Narva's political life has become so complicated. The dual power situation raises questions about the city's management, decision-making authority, and day-to-day administration, as it remains unclear whose orders and decisions are valid and which mayor municipal officials should take direction from.

Narva is Estonia's largest border city on the Russian border, and a stable and functioning local authority is particularly important for the region. The current confused distribution of power has generated concern among both local residents and the wider public.