Constitutional Reform: Key Laws Explained
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Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed a package of constitutional laws aimed at implementing the provisions of the Constitution adopted on March 15, 2026. Explanations have been provided for five key legislative acts, a correspondent reports.
The laws concern the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Status of Its Deputies, the Kazakhstan People's Council (Qazaqstan Halyq Kenesi), the Status of the Capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the Administrative-Territorial Structure of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Law on the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan
The constitutional law defines the powers of the president and the framework for interaction with state institutions.
The introduction of consultations with the prime minister and the speaker of the Kurultai when adopting extraordinary measures, as well as parliamentary approval mechanisms for a number of appointments, reflects Kazakhstan’s continued transition toward a balanced presidential republic.
A separate set of provisions is aimed at ensuring transparency and public trust. The president is elected for a single seven-year term.
The president may not simultaneously hold parliamentary office, engage in business activities, undertake other paid employment, or belong to a political party. Close relatives of the president are also prohibited from occupying key positions in state bodies and quasi-state entities. In essence, these measures are designed to prevent the concentration of influence and eliminate conflicts of interest, thereby strengthening public confidence in state institutions.
At the same time, a significant portion of the president’s powers is focused on ensuring the effectiveness of the state apparatus. The president participates in forming the government, oversees its strategic priorities, and reviews reports from key institutions ranging from the National Bank to law enforcement agencies. For citizens, this translates into stricter oversight of the implementation and outcomes of state policy.
Constitutional Law on the Status of the Capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan
A key provision of the law is the establishment of mandatory requirements for the architectural appearance and design code of the capital as the foundation for urban planning and construction activities.
Under the law, all architectural, urban development and construction activities within the capital must comply with the city’s master plan, urban planning documentation and state standards, ensuring a unified and comprehensive approach to the development of the urban environment.
One of the central provisions is the introduction of a mandatory design code for the capital. Its requirements will apply to buildings, road infrastructure, advertising and elements of the city’s visual appearance.
An important institutional role in implementing these approaches will be played by the Capital Architectural and Urban Planning Council, chaired by the mayor of Astana.
The council will include representatives of the city administration, architects, independent experts, civil society organisations and specialists representing the interests of people with disabilities. The body will review architectural and urban development projects and formulate recommendations on construction, urban design and the architectural appearance of the city, including monumental and artistic elements of the urban environment.
Law on the Administrative-Territorial Structure
The law is based on three fundamental principles: legality, stability and territorial integrity.
The stability of the administrative-territorial system will be ensured through mechanisms requiring that any changes to territorial boundaries or status be based exclusively on objective data and long-term development plans. This eliminates the possibility of unjustified territorial changes and guarantees the stable functioning of local executive and representative bodies, which is critical for socio-economic planning and the implementation of state programmes.
The constitutional law addresses fundamental issues that directly affect people’s lives in the regions, ranging from the status of settlements to the allocation of resources and infrastructure development.
In practical terms, the law’s primary objective is to bring order to the country’s territorial governance system and enshrine it at the constitutional level. This means that any changes to borders, territorial status or administrative subordination can no longer be made on an ad hoc basis but must be supported by clear justification, calculations and consideration of long-term development objectives. For residents, this primarily means greater stability, with clearer and more predictable rules.
Constitutional Law on the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Status of Its Deputies
The Kurultai operates through regular sessions held from September to June, with extraordinary sessions convened when necessary at the initiative of the president, the speaker of the chamber or the deputies themselves.
Sessions constitute the principal form of the Kurultai’s work. They are conducted with a quorum and are generally open to the public, allowing participation by senior state officials.
The legislative process within the Kurultai regulates the submission, consideration and adoption of laws, as well as interaction among key state institutions. The right of legislative initiative belongs to the president, Kurultai deputies, the government and the Kazakhstan People's Council. All draft laws must undergo mandatory review by профиль committees before being submitted for consideration at a plenary session.
The constitutional law establishes the legal status of a deputy as a professional public office based on an oath to the people of Kazakhstan. Powers commence upon registration by the Central Election Commission and are accompanied by strict restrictions. Deputies are prohibited from engaging in business activities or holding other paid positions, except in scientific, educational or creative fields. Violation of these rules, as well as withdrawal from the political party through which the deputy was elected, results in the immediate loss of the parliamentary mandate.
Constitutional Law on the Kazakhstan People's Council
The primary mission of the Kazakhstan People's Council is to institutionalise public participation in the development and implementation of state policy. It is intended not merely as a discussion platform but as a practical mechanism ensuring the representation of civil society interests in decision-making processes. This is expected to contribute to a more balanced and socially oriented state policy.
The council is granted clearly defined and extensive powers enabling it to influence public policy and issues affecting citizens’ daily lives.
The Kazakhstan People's Council may develop and formally submit proposals on key areas of domestic policy, public harmony, national unity and the promotion of Kazakhstan’s core values. Most importantly, it is empowered to directly submit draft laws and major policy proposals to the Kurultai, as well as initiate nationwide referendums.
In addition, the council will participate in discussions and monitoring of state policy implementation while facilitating ongoing dialogue between the authorities, the public and civil society.
In essence, the mechanism envisages a process whereby society raises pressing issues, the council conducts in-depth analysis and advances them through the decision-making system - from recommendations and assessments to draft legislation or nationwide referendums.
As a result, the Kazakhstan People's Council is positioned as a genuine bridge between society and the state, providing citizens with a direct instrument to influence decisions that affect their everyday lives.
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Tokayev Discusses Security and Transport Connectivity with Senior Adviser to the Abrahamic Business Circle's Peace Council
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Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev received Aryeh Lightstone, Senior Adviser to the Peace Council, the presidential press service Akorda reported.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed Kazakhstan's initiatives aimed at supporting stabilisation efforts in the Gaza Strip. Talks focused on the country's participation in restoring social infrastructure, as well as projects in the fields of education, healthcare and food security.
Lightstone congratulated Tokayev and the people of Kazakhstan on the Day of State Symbols, wishing the country peace and prosperity. He also conveyed warm greetings to the Kazakh president from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Particular attention was paid to the development of transport and logistics cooperation. The parties discussed the TRIPP initiative and collaboration within the framework of the Middle Corridor. Kazakhstan reaffirmed its interest in expanding international transport connectivity and diversifying trade routes.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides expressed their readiness to further strengthen cooperation on a broad range of bilateral and international issues.
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President Announces Changes to Rules Governing Use of State Symbols
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Kazakhstan’s government will soon introduce amendments to regulations governing the use of the country's state symbols, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced during a national flag-raising ceremony, according to the Akorda presidential press service.
Strengthening the authority and prestige of our national symbols is a matter of state importance. In the near future, the government will amend the resolution regulating the use of state symbols. Respect for our national symbols is a shared responsibility and the duty of every citizen, ultimately reflecting respect for the state itself," Tokayev said.
The president noted that Kazakhstan’s new Constitution clearly affirms the inseparable link between the Kazakh people and the millennia-old history of the Great Steppe.
A monumental structure dedicated to the achievements of the Great Steppe civilisation will soon begin to be built in the capital. Recently, with UNESCO’s support, we hosted an international symposium in Astana devoted to the study of the legacy of the Golden Horde. Undoubtedly, all of these initiatives will make a significant contribution to strengthening the foundations of our statehood," he said.
According to Tokayev, the Golden Horde was a major medieval power with its own institutions of governance, diplomatic service, communications and customs systems, a widely recognised currency and advanced technologies for its time.
The modern presidential model of governance firmly established in Kazakhstan has its roots in the political system created during the era of the Golden Horde. The Golden Horde’s greatest legacy lies in its enduring values, which, within a common legal framework, united people of different religions, languages, cultures and traditions across a vast state. The glorious path of our ancestors will always serve as an example and a strategic guide for us," the head of state said.
As part of the ceremony, the military rank of Senior Lieutenant was awarded to outstanding graduates of the Sagadat Nurmagambetov Military Institute of the Ground Forces, the National Security Committee Academy, the Border Academy of the National Security Committee, the Barimbek Beisenov Karaganda Academy of the Interior Ministry, the National Guard Academy and the Malik Gabdullin Academy of Civil Protection.
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Knowledge Economy - a New Driver of Partnership between Kazakhstan and the European Union
As part of the "Shanyraq Dialogue" discussion platform, the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Belgium hosted a roundtable entitled "Kazakhstan’s Knowledge Economy: New Horizons for Partnership with the European Union". The event brought together Kazakhstan’s Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek, representatives of Belgian universities and research centres, members of the expert and diplomatic communities, and representatives of the European External Action Service, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan reports.
The discussion was moderated by Karina Anguelieva, Executive Director of the International Science and Technology Center (ISTC). In her opening remarks, she highlighted the dynamic development of Kazakhstan’s solid scientific and technological potential, which was one of the key factors behind the ISTC’s decision to relocate its headquarters to Astana in 2015. She emphasized that Kazakhstan currently occupies a leading position in the implementation of several flagship ISTC projects.
Welcoming participants, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Belgium Roman Vassilenko noted the significant qualitative progress in Kazakhstan - EU relations over the 33 years since diplomatic relations were established between Astana and Brussels, and 10 years since the signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kazakhstan and the European Union.
The Ambassador recalled that the European Union remains Kazakhstan’s largest trade and investment partner. Cooperation between the two sides continues expanding in the strategic areas such as transport connectivity, critical raw materials, green transformation, digitalization, and innovation.
Ambassador Vassilenko particularly emphasized the cooperation in education, science, and technology. He noted that investment in human capital is one of Kazakhstan’s key priorities, and that deeper engagement with European universities and research centres creates new opportunities for joint research, academic exchanges, and the training of specialists for the economy of the future.
As the keynote speaker, Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek presented the main priorities of Kazakhstan’s state policy in science and higher education. These include the modernization of research infrastructure, the development of research universities, the internationalization of higher education, support for young scientists, the commercialization of scientific research, and expanded participation in international research programs.
Particular attention was paid to Kazakhstan’s efforts to strengthen cooperation with the European scientific and educational community, including participation in international initiatives such as the European Union’s "Horizon Europe" program, which supports research and innovation.
In particular, Minister Nurbek stated: "The knowledge economy is built on trust, open universities, strong science, and international cooperation. Kazakhstan is interested in ensuring that cooperation with European universities is systematic and long-term, based on joint research, the exchange of experience, and the training of specialists for the economy of the future".
Roundtable served as an effective platform for open dialogue among government officials, academic institutions, experts, and members of the diplomatic corps on the future development of scientific and educational cooperation between Kazakhstan and the European Union.
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Kazakhstan Marks State Symbols Day
Kazakhstan is celebrating State Symbols Day on June 4, commemorating the adoption of the country's national symbols.
Kazakhstan's state symbols were approved on June 4, 1992. The Constitutional Law "On the State Symbols of the Republic of Kazakhstan" was adopted on June 4, 2007. In accordance with the law, State Symbols Day has been celebrated annually on June 4.
Kazakhstan's official state symbols are the national flag, the national emblem and the national anthem.
The national flag is a rectangular sky-blue banner featuring a golden sun with 32 rays at its center and a soaring golden eagle beneath it. Along the flagpole side runs a vertical strip with a traditional national ornament. The sun, its rays, the eagle and the ornamental pattern are all depicted in gold. The flag was designed by Shaken Niyazbekov, an Honoured Artist of Kazakhstan.
The national emblem is circular in shape and features a shanyrak - the upper dome of a traditional Kazakh yurt - set against a blue background. Radiating outward from the shanyrak are uyks, the supporting poles of the yurt, resembling sunbeams. Images of mythical winged horses are positioned on either side of the shanyrak. A three-dimensional five-pointed star appears at the top, while the inscription "Qazaqstan" is placed at the bottom. The star, shanyrak, uyks, winged horses and inscription are all rendered in gold. The emblem was designed by renowned architects Zhandarbek Malibekov and Shot-Aman Ualikhanov.
The national anthem, previously known as the song "Menin Qazaqstanym" ("My Kazakhstan"), was officially adopted by the country's parliament on January 6, 2006. The music was composed by Shamshi Kaldayakov, while the lyrics were written by Zhumeken Nazhimedenov and Nursultan Nazarbayev.
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Kazakhstan Opens Embassy in Cyprus Capital
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Kazakhstan has opened its embassy in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said during talks with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, according to the presidential press service Akorda.
We are interested in developing a multifaceted partnership with Cyprus. Relations between our countries are steadily advancing, supported by regular contacts at the political level and between our diplomatic services. The mutual opening of embassies in Astana and Nicosia has created a solid institutional foundation for more systematic and practical cooperation," Tokayev said.
The Kazakh president noted that Christodoulides had arrived in Kazakhstan accompanied by a sizeable business delegation, reflecting the growing interest of Cypriot companies in the Kazakh market. According to Tokayev, the business forum held on Wednesday and the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the two countries’ chambers of commerce will help establish direct dialogue between business communities.
Kazakhstan welcomes Cypriot companies willing to invest and expand their presence in our country. Creating favourable conditions for businesses and investors remains one of the key priorities of Kazakhstan’s economic policy," he said.
Tokayev stressed the importance of coordinating government efforts to achieve a productive economic agenda. In this regard, he proposed developing a Roadmap for Economic Cooperation through 2028. He also initiated the establishment of an Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation and a Business Council, as well as regular exchanges of trade delegations.
For his part, Christodoulides described his visit to Kazakhstan as an important milestone in the development of bilateral relations.
We recognise the geopolitical importance of Central Asia and Kazakhstan’s role in the world. Kazakhstan is a strategic partner of the European Union. As a member state of the European Union, Cyprus can serve as a reliable gateway to the European market for Kazakh investors and companies. We offer a predictable business environment fully aligned with EU standards," the Cypriot president said.
The two leaders also discussed prospects for strengthening cooperation in trade and investment, transport and logistics, digital communications, artificial intelligence and finance.
Following the talks, Tokayev awarded Christodoulides the First Class Order of Dostyk (Friendship).
In the presence of the two heads of state, members of the official delegations exchanged a number of intergovernmental and interagency documents, including:
1. A memorandum of understanding between Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development and Cyprus’ Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy on cooperation in ICT, e-government, space activities and cybersecurity;
2. A memorandum of understanding on cultural cooperation between Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Culture and Information and Cyprus’ Deputy Ministry of Culture;
3. A memorandum of understanding between Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Science and Higher Education and Cyprus’ Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport and Youth on cooperation in education and science;
4. A memorandum of understanding on sports cooperation between Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports and Cyprus’ Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth;
5. A cooperation agreement between the Foreign Trade Chamber of Kazakhstan and the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry aimed at strengthening investment and business opportunities between the two institutions.
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Kazakhstan Appoints New Deputy Head of Presidential Administration
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Erzhan Zhiyenbayev has been appointed Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration of Kazakhstan, the presidential press service said.
By decree of the Head of State, Erzhan Nurlanovich Zhiyenbayev has been appointed Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Kazakhstan," the statement said.
The presidential administration also reported that he has been relieved of his previous position.
Born on December 20, 1981, in Almaty, Zhiyenbayev graduated from Turan University in 2002. Over the course of his career, he has held various positions at the Ministry of Finance and the Prime Minister’s Office.
From October 23, 2019, to September 1, 2023, he served as Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration. Since September 2023, he has been serving as Assistant to the President for Legal Affairs.
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Kazakhstan to Introduce Administrative Amnesty for the First Time
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Kazakhstan is set to introduce an administrative amnesty mechanism for the first time. The initiative will be regulated under a new Article 889-1 of the country's Code of Administrative Offences. A draft law and related amendments were approved by the Mazhilis on Wednesday, a correspondent reports.
As this mechanism is being introduced for the first time, the most transparent and secure implementation format has been chosen. At this stage, the amnesty applies exclusively to administrative fines. It does not cover repeat offences or cases under judicial consideration," the Mazhilis said.
The amnesty will apply to both ordinary citizens and individual entrepreneurs, as well as private notaries, private bailiffs, lawyers and legal consultants. The inclusion of individual entrepreneurs is intended to support economic activity and small business development.
At the same time, the administrative amnesty will not apply to fines imposed by courts or to offences that pose a threat to public safety, citizens’ lives and health, or state interests.
In particular, violations related to road safety have been excluded from the amnesty. These include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving into oncoming traffic, and other serious traffic offences.
Also excluded are administrative offences related to the illegal circulation of weapons and narcotics, public health, sanitary and epidemiological safety, personal data protection, and a number of other sensitive areas.
The Unified Register of Administrative Proceedings will be used to implement the amnesty. Based on criteria established by law, the system will automatically generate a list of individuals eligible for the measure.
Decisions will be issued electronically and certified with the digital signatures of authorized officials. Citizens affected by the amnesty will be notified through digital services and SMS messages, with no need to submit applications or contact government agencies.
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