Poder local versus política local: a Câmara de Vereadores de Itapipoca (1824-2012)

Abstract

Investigates the process through which local elites became institutionalized agents in local politics through the analysis of local government in the municipality of Itapipoca. The analysis focuses on the historical developments of the local political dynamics over the period 19824-2012. Throughout the history of this institution seeks to rescue the process by which local politics was institutionalized in Brazilian regimes, bringing to light how politics takes place in contemporary local context. The process of political institutionalization culminates with two major problems: the system of municipal autonomy and the creation of mechanisms of horizontal accountability in local government. The concept of local autonomy is defined based on three dimensions: financial, political and administrative, thus the concept is applied to the historical development of the Brazilian political structure. Accountability and representation issues are discussed with evidence from the qualitative research conducted by the author in the municipality of Itapipoca over the years 2011 and 2012. Focuses on the recent experience of Councilors Chamber in the new institutional frame. Discusses party development, legislative production and the political profile of local representatives in one legislature (2008-2012). The relationship between the Executive and the Legislative is examined through the analyses of agency setting and conflicts over the agents involved. Although political competition gets more institutionalized in local government, political party systems faces problems to consolidate in local context. An initial approach for comprehending this phenomenon is offered.