By Dr. Asadullah Karimov – Director General for South Africa and Kazakhstan Trading and Cultural Association
The draft new Constitution reflects a shift in how political reform is being approached in Kazakhstan. Instead of adjusting individual provisions, the process moves toward reworking the constitutional framework as a whole, responding to changes in the political system, public expectations, and governance practices. The decision to submit the draft to a nationwide referendum places citizens at the centre of the final outcome and reinforces the role of public consent in constitutional change.
The preparation process itself points to a more open and participatory approach. Proposals collected through digital platforms, the formation of a broadly representative Constitutional Commission, and public access to discussions suggest an effort to widen involvement beyond state institutions. This approach increases public visibility of constitutional decision-making and may strengthen trust in the process.
Institutional changes focus on restructuring the balance within the political system. The move to a unicameral Parliament elected through a proportional system aims to strengthen political parties and clarify parliamentary responsibility. Expanded parliamentary powers and a fixed term of office are intended to improve legislative oversight while preserving institutional continuity. The establishment of the People’s Council introduces an additional consultative mechanism with the right of legislative initiative, creating another channel for public interests to be reflected in lawmaking, provided its role is clearly defined in practice.
Adjustments within the executive branch, including the introduction of a Vice President, are designed to support coordination in domestic and external engagement without altering the overall presidential model. This suggests a focus on functional efficiency rather than a redistribution of core executive authority.
Legal safeguards receive increased attention in the draft. The strengthening of procedural rights, including protections related to fair trial standards, legal defence, and non-retroactivity of law, aligns the constitutional framework more closely with widely accepted legal principles. The separate constitutional recognition of advocacy underscores the role of legal institutions in protecting individual rights.
The draft places greater emphasis on human rights and social development. Declaring rights and freedoms as a central constitutional priority sets a clear direction for state policy. Education, science, culture, and innovation are identified as key areas for long-term development, alongside explicit recognition of rights in the digital environment. This reflects an effort to adapt constitutional norms to social and technological change.
At the same time, the text maintains continuity in core values. Sovereignty, territorial integrity, secularism, and social cohesion remain firmly enshrined at the constitutional level. Provisions related to family and marriage reflect existing social norms while framing them within principles of equality and legal protection.
Overall, the draft presents a revised constitutional framework that combines institutional adjustment with updated value priorities. Its impact will depend on public support in the referendum and on how its provisions are implemented through legislation and political practice.