ASTANA (MNN); Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on January 20 outlined sweeping political reforms, foreign policy priorities and a digital transformation roadmap while addressing the National Kurultai in Kyzylorda, calling for national unity amid growing global uncertainty.
Constitutional reforms and referendum
President Tokayev said reforms launched in 2022, along with new initiatives to be put before a national referendum, signal a shift away from the 1995 constitutional model toward an entirely new political system. He stressed that public backing of these changes would renew Kazakhstan’s governance structure and reinforce long-term political stability.
According to Tokayev, the reform package proposes replacing the current legislature with a unicameral parliament named Quryltai, establishing the Khalyk Kenesi (People’s Council), and introducing the post of vice president, Akorda reported.
Role of Khalyk Kenesi
Tokayev said the People’s Council would take over major responsibilities of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan, particularly in maintaining interethnic and interfaith harmony. It would also work on proposals to improve domestic policy, promote state ideology, and be granted the right to initiate legislation. The council would additionally oversee the organization of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions.
Presidential succession and vice presidency
The president emphasized the importance of clearly defining presidential succession in the Constitution. He said that if a president leaves office before completing a term, fresh elections must be held within two months, ensuring that power is transferred solely through elections. He described this principle as essential and non-negotiable.
Tokayev also proposed creating the office of vice president, to be appointed by the president with parliamentary approval. The vice president would represent Kazakhstan internationally, work closely with parliament, engage with domestic and foreign institutions, and perform duties assigned by the president. These responsibilities, he said, must be clearly enshrined in the Constitution.
He added that the proposed amendments would not reduce presidential authority but would instead clarify governance mechanisms and strengthen institutional stability, reaffirming that Kazakhstan would continue as a presidential republic.
The reform agenda also includes abolishing certain administrative bodies linked to the current parliament and the post of state counselor, along with restructuring the Presidential Administration to better match practical governance needs.
Economic integration and national interests
On economic matters, Tokayev said Kazakhstan supports regional economic integration but will firmly safeguard its national interests, particularly amid global tensions. As chair of the Eurasian Economic Union this year, Kazakhstan will focus on removing trade barriers, countering unjustified protectionism, and expanding the use of artificial intelligence to improve integration efficiency.
He expressed concern over pressure on Kazakhstan’s agricultural processing industry due to subsidized imports within the EAEU, calling it a food security issue and urging stronger government measures to protect local producers.
Foreign policy outlook
Tokayev said global relations are undergoing major shifts marked by declining trust, weakening international law and increasing militarization. Against this backdrop, he stressed that Kazakhstan’s foreign policy must remain balanced and firmly centered on national interests.
He noted that diplomatic decisions have long-term implications and must be approached with professionalism and caution, adding that diplomacy should prioritize compromise over confrontation.
Digitalization and artificial intelligence
The president said digitalization and artificial intelligence are rapidly reshaping global dynamics, reducing the importance of population size and favoring countries that adapt quickly and strategically. He said Kazakhstan has chosen a path of accelerated digitalization and AI adoption across all sectors.
However, Tokayev cautioned that technology alone cannot fix governance problems. Effective digital transformation, he said, requires simplified management processes, stronger institutional culture and modern public-sector management.
He also highlighted the need to develop strong infrastructure for a future digital and energy-intensive economy, including early planning for high-capacity data centers with reliable power supply, cooling systems and security arrangements.
