Tokayev Reveals Personal Role in Drafting Kazakhstan's New Constitution

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has disclosed his direct involvement in preparing the text of Kazakhstan's new Constitution. He shared details of the process during his address at the III Republican Forum of Deputies of Maslikhats at all levels in Astana.

"Frankly speaking, as Head of State, I participated directly in preparing the text of the new Constitution, paying attention to every chapter and every article," Tokayev stated. "Deeply rethinking the meaning of each word, I directed my proposals to members of the Constitutional Commission. We also paid special attention to aligning terminology with the requirements of the Kazakh language."

The President provided a specific example from this meticulous work. He noted that while discussing the concept of "territorial integrity" in Kazakh, he suggested using "zherdıń tutastyǵy" (integrity of the land), a term deeply rooted in Kazakh culture and worldview.

"Native land is one of the most sacred concepts for the Kazakh people. Our ancestors sacrificed their lives for every inch of their native land. They managed to defend our boundless steppes and pass them on as a legacy to future generations," Tokayev said.

He explained that despite his support for this culturally resonant phrasing, most members of the Constitutional Commission decided to retain "aýmaqtyq tutastyq" (territorial integrity), as this term is firmly established in international law. This case, according to Tokayev, vividly illustrates how vigorously every norm and article was debated during drafting.

The President also highlighted significant public engagement with thousands of proposals submitted by citizens, which were thoroughly reviewed. He cited a Kazakh proverb: "What is decided together is always right."

"All constructive ideas were taken into account. Such high involvement underscores our citizens' sincere connection to their country's fate," Tokayev emphasized. "The draft Basic Law put to a nationwide referendum has been comprehensively studied and discussed. Therefore, we can confidently say this is truly a people's Constitution."

The remarks follow earlier comments by State Counsellor Erlan Karin, who noted that President Tokayev not only initiated constitutional reforms but also acted as a direct author of key provisions.