Kazakhstan: Constitutional Referendum Reflects Commitment to Sustainable Development

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Embassy of Kazakhstan stated that the results of the latest constitutional referendum reflect the country’s strong commitment to sustainable national development. This was conveyed through a press statement received in Jakarta on Thursday, following the high public participation in the vote and the majority support for the new constitution, which is seen as the foundation for long-term development direction. The Embassy noted that in the referendum, the participation rate reached 73.12 per cent, with 87.15 per cent of voters expressing approval for the constitutional amendments. The Embassy assessed that this high participation rate reflects the genuine aspirations of the Kazakh people to live in a just and equal country, based on the principles of law and order, respect and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and a modern society. Kazakhstan emphasised that these reforms also represent a major step in fulfilling the expectations of future generations. This is because the constitutional renewal not only focuses on political aspects but also serves as a strategic foundation for development across various sectors. From education, science, technology, to culture and the environment, all are positioned as priorities within the future national development framework. The constitution drafting process was carried out through a long series of stages involving a Constitutional Commission consisting of 129 representatives from society. The Commission reviewed around 12,000 proposals from experts and civil society organisations, and held public discussions for six months before it was finally approved through a national referendum. Within the framework of institutional reforms, the new constitution introduces several important changes. Among them are the abolition of presidential quotas in parliament, the establishment of a unicameral parliamentary system or Kurultai, and the formation of a consultative People’s Council (Khalyk Kenesi) to expand public participation in the policy-making process. In addition, strengthening government governance is a primary focus, including through the establishment of the position of vice president and the implementation of term limits for high-ranking state officials. This step is considered important to ensure leadership regeneration and enhance government accountability. From the perspective of rights protection, the new constitution pays significant attention to human rights. For the first time, the largest portion in the basic law is dedicated to guaranteeing freedom of privacy, personal data, and the inviolability of residences. The Embassy also highlighted that this constitution will strengthen Kazakhstan’s attractiveness as a global investment destination. With guarantees for property rights and protection of intellectual property, the country is expected to accelerate its transformation towards a digital economy based on innovation. “Kazakhstan has already become the main destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in Central Asia, attracting nearly 70 per cent of FDI in the region. Nevertheless, much remains to be done. These reforms are necessary to accelerate Kazakhstan’s transition to a fully digital state and an innovation-driven economy,” stated the embassy. As a marker of this historic momentum, the Kazakh government has designated 15 March as Constitution Day. The Embassy affirmed that this step symbolises the country’s commitment to continue moving forward, strengthening national development, and building broader and more sustainable global partnerships.