The Majilis of Kazakhstan approved in the first reading amendments to reduce the powers of the president

The Mazhilis (lower house of parliament) of Kazakhstan approved in the first reading the amendments concerning the powers of the president. The bill contains the implementation of political reforms, which the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, announced in his message dated March 16, 2022. The meeting of the Mazhilis was broadcast on the YouTube channel of the Parliament.

“In general, the bills provide for amendments in seven main areas,” Kazakh Justice Minister Kanat Musin said.

First of all, the changes will affect the president. Thus, it is proposed to reduce the powers of the head of state in relation to local executive bodies and the Supreme Judicial Council, as well as to reduce his quota in the Senate of the Parliament.

In addition, the amendments will affect the parliament, government, electoral legislation, registration of political parties, etc.

“The entire system of elections is being rebuilt in connection with the transition to a mixed electoral system. The election process itself is being improved based on the requirements of the times,” Musin said.

He clarified that, according to the amendments, a new institution for recalling a deputy mandate will be introduced, and it is also planned to gradually introduce elections for heads of districts and cities of regional significance. In addition, the quantitative threshold for registration of political parties will be reduced from 20,000 to 5,000 members.

On March 16, Tokayev addressed the people of Kazakhstan with a message. In it, the president of the republic proposed a series of political reforms. In total, according to him, it will be necessary to make about 30 changes to the Constitution in order to implement these initiatives.

Tokayev issued a new message last week. In particular, he proposed hold early presidential elections in Kazakhstan in autumn 2022, limit the presidential term to seven years, and prohibit re-election.

Subscribe on “Vedomosti” in Telegram and stay up to date with the main news of the economy and business