Kazakh President Proposes Term Limits for Maslikhat Chairpersons

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has announced a major initiative to introduce term limits for the chairpersons of Kazakhstan's local representative bodies, known as maslikhats. The proposal was made during his address at the III Republican Forum of Maslikhat Deputies of All Levels, held on March 12 in Astana.

Tokayev emphasized the fundamental importance of expanding and clarifying the powers of maslikhats to strengthen their role within the system of local governance. He pointed out that during meetings between local akims (governors) and citizens, many specific problems are raised. To address these issues effectively, he called for maslikhat deputies to enhance their oversight functions and actively collaborate with akims.

The President also highlighted the need to streamline and revise the internal organizational structure of maslikhats. "Many of their powers are still formulated vaguely, which leads to disruptions in public administration," Tokayev stated.

"We are consistently implementing a rotation principle in management at all levels of state power. Currently, the terms of elected akims are limited to only two terms. I consider it necessary to introduce a rotation principle for maslikhat chairpersons as well," declared President Tokayev.

The Head of State noted that while these bodies were previously headed by secretaries, they now have chairpersons—a change he views as correct. However, he argued that their terms should not exceed two consecutive periods either.

"This approach will contribute to the formation of a professional deputy corps and increase its effectiveness, which aligns with the logic of reforms being carried out in our country," Tokayev underscored.

In his speech, Tokayev also spoke about the need for concrete measures to strengthen the accountability of maslikhat deputies for failing to fulfill their duties or violating ethical standards. He believes such steps will foster political culture among the population and build greater trust in local representative institutions.

The President concluded by outlining what he described as the special mission of maslikhats in Kazakhstan's ongoing political modernization.