Kazakhstan unveils first draft of new Constitution

Kazakhstan has unveiled the first draft of a new Constitution, following a proposal by members of the Constitutional Reform Commission to develop an updated Basic Law for the country.

The draft was presented by Deputy Chairman of the Constitutional Court Bakyt Nurmukhanov during the sixth session of the Commission, according to Kazakh media.

Nurmukhanov explained that after discussions at the previous meeting, where several Commission members suggested drafting a new Constitution, work began on preparing an initial version. The document reflects public proposals submitted over the past six months, the opinions of Commission members, as well as comments and recommendations regarding the version previously introduced at the fourth session.

“The first draft of Kazakhstan’s new Constitution consists of a Preamble, 11 sections and 95 articles. The Preamble has been completely revised. It incorporates national values that represent the country’s past and serve as a guide for its present and future. The development of human capital, education, science and innovation is recognised as a strategic priority of the state. These changes were widely discussed and received broad public support,” Nurmukhanov said.

He noted that the opening section, titled “Fundamentals of the Constitutional System,” outlines key principles defining the structure of the state and reinforcing Kazakhstan’s sovereignty and independence. Under these provisions, Kazakhstan is designated as a unitary state, with a presidential republic established as the form of government. This reflects proposals from scholars and experts calling for a clearer constitutional definition of the system of governance.

The draft also proposes that the country’s administrative and territorial structure be regulated by a constitutional law rather than an ordinary law. In addition, sovereignty and independence, the unitary nature of the state, territorial integrity and the form of government are categorised as immutable values. These principles are закреплены in the opening articles of the Constitution.

Nurmukhanov also pointed out that Deputy Chairman of the Commission Erlan Tynymbayuly had recently proposed constitutionally enshrining the principle that sovereignty belongs to the people. This idea has now been included in the draft.

“Article 4 clearly states that the people of Kazakhstan are the sole source of state power and the bearer of sovereignty,” he said.

By Tamilla Hasanova