| The Legislature The Grand Duke opens each annual session of the Chamber of Deputies. He can also dissolve the Chamber, in which case new elections must be held within three months of such a dissolution. The Grand Duke has the power to convene the Chamber of Deputies in extraordinary session, and is compelled to do so upon a request from one third of the deputies. |
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| The Judiciary All judges are appointed by the Grand Duke. Justice is dispensed by the courts and tribunals in the name of the Grand Duke, and all judgments are enforced in his name. The Grand Duke has the power to grant mercy, or to reduce sentences imposed by the courts. However, he cannot grant mercy to a minister, except with the authority of the Chamber of Deputies. In order to preserve the independence of the judiciary, the Grand Duke is prevented from interfering with the exercise of judicial power. |
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| Photo: The Grand Duke, accompanied by the Grand Duchess, opens the 2001/2002 session of the Chamber of Deputies, October 2001 | |||||||||
| The Communes The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is composed of 118 communes. The Grand Duke appoints the commune mayors, acting upon the majority decisions of the communal councillors. The Grand Duke has the power to dissolve the Communal Council. back |
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