Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev delivered a congratulatory message to the public on July 6, coinciding with 'Capital Day,' emphasizing the significance of the new constitution that took effect on July 1. The new constitution is regarded as the most significant overhaul of Kazakhstan's political system since independence.
The new constitution, referred to as the 'People's Constitution' by President Tokayev, was approved in a national referendum on March 15, with a turnout of approximately 73 percent and 87.15 percent in favor, according to the Central Referendum Commission of Kazakhstan. It replaces the 1995 constitution, abolishes the bicameral parliament, and establishes a 145-seat unicameral parliament called the 'Kurultai,' while also reinstating the vice presidency.
In his congratulatory message reported by the state news agency Kazinform, President Tokayev linked the constitutional reform to Capital Day, describing Astana as a symbol of national independence and a city that determines the fate of the nation.
Tokayev stated, 'Astana has been a driving force behind significant historical developments,' adding that 'our capital has achieved the status of a 'smart city' with the introduction of advanced administrative systems.'
He noted that the enactment of the People's Constitution on the eve of Capital Day is symbolic, marking an event that opens a new and historic chapter for the nation and serves as a catalyst for modernizing key government and social institutions.
The president also highlighted that the newly established constitutional law regarding the capital's status strengthens Astana's role as a political, administrative, economic, and cultural center. He mentioned that new parks, squares, and children's playgrounds have been developed for residents and visitors, and that Astana is enhancing its international standing as a venue for discussing regional and global issues.
He emphasized that the capital will serve as a vivid example of responsible citizenship and the values of 'law and order,' as well as a new civic ethic based on the 'Other Kazakhstan' initiative. The 'Other Kazakhstan' initiative is a nationwide cleanliness and public culture campaign launched by President Tokayev in 2024. He expressed confidence that Astana will continue to prosper and stand at the forefront of building a 'just Kazakhstan.'
Previously known as Akmolinsk, Astana became the capital of Kazakhstan in 1997 when the capital was moved from Almaty. From 2019 to 2022, it was also called Nur-Sultan, named after the first president, Nursultan Nazarbayev. Capital Day, celebrated on July 6, has been a national holiday since 2008.
The constitutional transition is now moving to the next phase. The previous bicameral parliament held its final session on June 30, and elections for the new Kurultai are scheduled for August 23. The new parliament is expected to be inaugurated by September 1.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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