Professor Zainidin Kurmanov shares his opinion on the redistribution of power and the strengthening of the system of checks and balances in the updated Constitution of Kazakhstan.
The recent referendum in Kazakhstan regarding amendments to the Constitution has become an important step in rethinking the political system and redistributing powers among key state institutions. Experts continue to analyze the consequences of these reforms.
Doctor of Historical Sciences and Professor Zainidin Kurmanov discussed in an interview with Vesti.kg what transformations are provided for in the new constitutional model and how they may affect the governance of the state.
In his opinion, Kazakhstan aims to transition from a "super-presidential" republic model to a more balanced presidential republic with enhanced parliamentary powers. This implies a redistribution of power among various state structures.
Kurmanov emphasizes that one of the key tasks of the reforms is the deconcentration of presidential powers. This includes a self-imposed limitation on the president's power to avoid excessive concentration. In particular, the new Constitution introduces a single seven-year presidential term without the possibility of re-election.
Changes will also affect the role of the president in party politics. According to the new provisions, the president will not be able to be a member of political parties while in office. Additionally, there is a ban on close relatives of the president holding leadership positions in state and quasi-state structures.
Strengthening the role of the parliament and maslikhats is also an important aspect of the reforms. Kurmanov believes that the new model envisions the creation of an effective system of "checks and balances," which is possible through the strengthening of legislative power. A mixed electoral system is being introduced, allowing independent candidates and activists to participate in the political process. The conditions for registering political parties have also been simplified, which should activate political competition and contribute to the formation of a multi-party system.
Special attention is given to the human rights area. The updated Constitution aims to strengthen guarantees of citizens' rights and expand their protection opportunities. In particular, a Constitutional Court will be re-established in Kazakhstan, where citizens can file complaints about the unconstitutionality of normative acts. The status of an ombudsman will also be introduced, who will receive immunity and greater independence from the executive power. Additionally, the abolition of the death penalty is finally enshrined.
Another direction of the reforms is the reduction of centralization in state governance. This includes expanding local self-government and strengthening the role of regional authorities. In particular, direct elections of akims of districts and cities of regional significance will be held, which, according to the expert, will increase the accountability of local authorities to the population.
Furthermore, the new Constitution enshrines the principle that land and subsoil resources belong to the people, and the state manages them on behalf of the people.
Thus, Professor Kurmanov concludes, the changes in the Constitution create an institutional basis for a new political model in Kazakhstan. The key question remains how these changes will be implemented in practice.
