Kazakhstan proposes sweeping constitutional reforms Details

Kazakhstan is preparing extensive updates to its Constitution, with amendments affecting nearly the entire text.

Сhanges have been made to 77 articles, accounting for 84% of the current Constitution, Caliber.Az reports, citing multiple Kazakh media sources.

Among the most significant revisions, the Constitution establishes human rights and freedoms as the state’s core values. Development of human capital through education, science, and innovation is officially recognised as a strategic priority of state policy. The people of Kazakhstan are affirmed as the bearers of sovereignty and the sole source of state power, with decisions to be made through elections and nationwide referendums.

The preamble may now include phrases such as “Great Steppe,” “Just Kazakhstan,” and “Law and Order.” Articles on freedom of speech, privacy, and peaceful assembly are clarified: speech must not infringe upon the honour and dignity of others, spiritual and moral values, or public order.

Education is confirmed as secular, with unified standards, compulsory primary and secondary education, and competitive higher education. Religion is fully separated from the state, with religious organisations operating under the law and subject to restrictions for the protection of human rights, security, and public order.

Marriage is defined as a voluntary and equal union between a man and a woman. A new unicameral Parliament, the Kurultai, will be elected through proportional representation. New institutions, including a vice president and the Khalk Kenesy (People’s Council), are designed to strengthen governance and public dialogue. Individuals with unexpunged criminal records or proven corruption cannot hold elected office.

In the event of a president’s death or early resignation, the Kuryltai must announce elections within seven days, to be held within two months. Deputies will have the authority to remove ministers from office. Constitutional amendments can only be enacted through a nationwide referendum, called either by the president, the Kuryltai, the government, or the Khalyk Kenesy.

The final decision on the new Constitution will rest with the people through a nationwide vote.

By Tamilla Hasanova