Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed the constitutional law "On the People's Council of Kazakhstan," which establishes a new supreme advisory body in the country.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the press service of the President of Kazakhstan confirmed the signing of the legislation.
The People's Council of Kazakhstan has been established to foster national dialogue and ensure the participation of civil society in shaping the country's domestic policy. The new body will possess broad authorities, including the right to legislative initiatives and the power to propose national referendums.
The law was drafted to implement provisions of the new Constitution, which was adopted during a national referendum held on March 15. The People's Council will consist of 42 members, including representatives from ethno-cultural associations, public organizations, as well as delegates from the capital, regions, and cities of republican significance. The composition of the Council will be approved by the President.
Members of the Council will serve four-year terms. The body is empowered to prepare proposals and recommendations on domestic policy issues, participate in the legislative process, initiate referendums, organize public discussions, and engage in public oversight. Additionally, the Council has been granted the authority to organize and conduct the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. Upon the entry into force of this new law, the existing "Law on the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan" is expected to be repealed.
This legislative development marks a significant shift in Kazakhstan's political architecture, aiming to institutionalize public participation in governance. By integrating civil society representatives directly into a constitutional advisory framework, the administration seeks to enhance transparency and public engagement in the legislative process, reflecting broader reforms initiated following the constitutional changes earlier this year.
