As part of the information and explanatory work on the issues of constitutional reform in the Republic of Kazakhstan, lawyers and experts met with representatives of small businesses. The next meeting was held at the "Kyrgy Bazaar", where relevant explanatory work was carried out for individual entrepreneurs - one of the most active and hardworking categories of society.
Expert Erdaulet Asanbek noted that under the leadership of the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakhstan has entered a new historical period of development. According to him, the updated Constitution defines new foundations for the political, legal and social development of the country. Large-scale changes are a legitimate process arising from the demands of society and the requirements of the times.
"The new Constitution is a legitimate continuation of the historical evolution of the Basic Law of our country and is aimed at increasing the effectiveness of the principle of "Strong President - Influential Parliament - Accountable Government". This is intended to limit the excessive concentration of power, strengthen the role of Parliament, develop local self-government, as well as provide for the specific and effective protection of the rights and freedoms of citizens," said Erdaulet Asanbek.
During the meeting, the participants were explained that the Constitution is the foundation of statehood and the main document that determines the strategic directions of society's development. Any changes to the Basic Law directly affect the future of the country.
The main feature of the ongoing reform is its open and inclusive nature. The draft changes were developed taking into account public opinion and are subject to broad discussion with citizens. This indicates that a new political culture is emerging in Kazakhstan and the level of civic responsibility is increasing.
The updated preamble for the first time enshrines human rights and freedoms as the highest priority of the state. Unity, solidarity, interethnic and interfaith harmony are defined as the foundations of Kazakhstan's statehood. Sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity are included among the immutable values.
Particular attention is paid to strengthening the principle of secularism of the state. A clear separation of religion and state institutions is established, and the secular nature of the education and upbringing system is confirmed. Also, according to the draft, it is determined that marriage is a voluntary and equal union of a man and a woman. This norm is aimed at protecting traditional values and ensuring the legal protection of the family.
The project envisages changes to the system of representative bodies. It is proposed to approve the updated structure of the Parliament, consisting of 145 deputies, as well as to create a new nationwide dialogue platform called the "People's Council of the People of Kazakhstan". This consultative body will represent the interests of the people and have the right to initiate legislation.
At the end of the meeting, the participants were reminded that the final decision on the adoption of the new Constitution will be made by the citizens of the country in a nationwide referendum. The business community showed great interest in the proposed changes, expressed support for the new Constitution and expressed their readiness to participate in the referendum.