The constitutional reform is a logical extension of all political reforms of the President, Kazakhstan’s Secretary of State Erlan Karin announced. The amendments involve underlying principles of the country’s work, are of historic importance for Kazakhstan and are pursued for the benefit of society, he said. Top-level scientists and legal experts worked on the project. All the changes were divided into five big blocks to see the difference between the old and the new version of the Constitution, the state secretary noted. The first block of amendments will ensure the final transition from a super-presidential form to a presidential republic.
“The second block is aimed at redistribution of a number of powers. Firstly, the presidential quota in the Senate will be reduced from 15 to 10 MPs, five of whom will be put forward by Kazakhstan’s Ethnic Assembly. Secondly, the Senate will coordinate the candidates for the positions to chair the Constitutional Council and the Supreme Judicial Council submitted by the President. Thirdly, a Constitutional Court is being established. Fourthly, the Accounts Committee for Control over the Execution of the State Budget will be transformed into the Supreme Audit Chamber. Its chairperson will report to the Mazhilismen twice a year,” Karin said.
The amendments point out the emerging role and the elevating status of the Parliament and its houses. They focus on the greater involvement of the population in the country’s governance. The last block is intended to enhance the protection of citizens’ rights.
Translation by Saniya Sakenova
Editing by Galiya Khassenkhanova
