Kazakhstan set to hold constitutional referendum
Kazakhstan is fully prepared to conduct a historic nationwide referendum on a new draft Constitution this Sunday, said Arman Issetov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
In an interaction with The Pioneer, Kazakhstan’s Deputy Foreign Minister said the country is ready to hold what he called a “historic referendum for a better Kazakhstan,” emphasising that the process reflects the Government’s commitment to reform and democratic participation.
“We are fully prepared to conduct the referendum on Sunday. This is a historic moment for our country and an important step toward building a better and more just Kazakhstan,” the deputy minister said. He described the voting as a decisive step toward building a stronger and more inclusive state.
The referendum, scheduled for March 15, will allow citizens across the country to vote on a comprehensive set of constitutional reforms designed to modernize Kazakhstan’s political system and strengthen the protection of citizens’ rights and freedoms.
According to the official, the reforms aim to establish a more balanced governance model with stronger institutions, greater public participation in decision-making, and enhanced accountability across all branches of Government. The proposed constitutional changes are part of a broader reform agenda initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, aimed at building what authorities describe as a “Just Kazakhstan.”
“These reforms are about strengthening statehood, protecting citizens’ rights and ensuring that the State serves the interests of the people,” the deputy minister said.
He noted that the drafting process included extensive public consultation. Over the past several months, thousands of proposals were submitted by citizens through Government platforms, reflecting widespread civic engagement in shaping the country’s future constitutional framework.
The new draft Constitution contains significant structural and conceptual changes, with amendments affecting a large portion of the existing constitutional text. The reforms place particular emphasis on human rights protections, social justice, and the rule of law.
MFA Officials say the new constitutional model will promote stronger democratic institutions, including a more effective Parliament, an independent judiciary and improved mechanisms for dialogue between the Government and society.
The referendum has also drawn significant international attention. Hundreds of international observers and foreign journalists have been accredited to monitor the vote, reflecting global interest in Kazakhstan’s political reforms.
Authorities say preparations for the referendum have been completed across the country, with polling stations ready to open on Sunday to allow citizens to cast their votes.
The deputy foreign minister expressed confidence that the referendum will mark a turning point in Kazakhstan’s political development. “This referendum is about the future of our country. We believe it will lay the foundation for a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Kazakhstan,” he said.
