Kazakh President Tokayev Highlights Key Constitutional Reforms

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has identified a permanent ban on convicted corrupt officials holding elected office as a crucial innovation in Kazakhstan's constitutional reforms. He made this statement while addressing the III Republican Forum of deputies from local representative bodies (maslikhats) of all levels in Astana.

Tokayev emphasized that this prohibition would apply even if the individual's criminal record had been expunged or cleared. He stated that this measure fully aligns with principles of justice.

The President also outlined other significant amendments aimed at strengthening citizens' rights. He highlighted new constitutional guarantees for the inviolability of the home, explicitly stating that no one can be deprived of housing or evicted without a corresponding court decision.

For the first time, the institution of advocacy will be enshrined in the Basic Law, incorporating provisions similar to the "Miranda rule." According to Tokayev, this will enhance state-guaranteed human rights to judicial protection and legal assistance.

Further reforms include constitutionally protecting the right to privacy. This extends beyond the secrecy of personal correspondence and deposits to encompass the confidentiality of banking transactions and personal data—a move deemed essential given the rapid development of digital technologies and the financial sector.

Tokayev announced plans to fix guarantees for protecting personal data and digital rights at the highest constitutional level. He characterized the new Constitution as having a genuinely popular character, asserting that this paramount document is placed in service to the people, particularly for the younger generation and youth.