IN the age of information, as new democracies rise to confront contemporary challenges such as climate change, Kazakhstan emerges as a nation of remarkable diversity within the rich tapestry of Central Asia. Situated alongside its neighbouring countries, including the rest of the International community, Kazakhstan plays a pivotal role in navigating the complex landscape of our evolving global society.
Rooted in diplomatic coherence and guided by a democratic vision, Kazakhstan stands as a beacon of progress and collaboration within the broader framework of Central Asia.
In a recent interview with Egemen, the prominent newspaper of Kazakhstan, President Jomart Tokayev articulated a resounding message of progress and optimism for the Kazakhstan people, the nation and the community of nations.
Emphasising the imperative for Kazakhstan to forge ahead as a progressive nation, the President’s words echo a commitment to embracing the future with unwavering determination.
Against the backdrop of contemporary challenges and opportunities, Kazakhstan’s President Tokayev’s vision illuminates a path towards a dynamic and prosperous future for Kazakhstan. His call to look forward serves as a rallying cry for Kazakhstan citizens and leaders alike to unite in the pursuit of innovation, growth, and sustained development.
As the nation stands at the crossroads of change, President Tokayev’s insights provide a compelling framework for charting a course towards a brighter and more progressive tomorrow. The year 2023 was a year full of significant events for Kazakhstan, in which the completion of political reforms, had witnessed the constitutional court begin its operations.
Elections for lower chamber parliamentary deputies, or what they call as Mazhilis, and the maslikhats of all levels were held under new rules. As Kazakhstan strides confidently into 2024, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev reflects on a transformative year that witnessed the completion of major political reforms and addresses the challenges and achievements that define the nation’s trajectory.
In an exclusive conversation with Egemen Qazaq stan, President Tokayev provides insights into the past, present, and future of Kazakhstan.
A year of achievements: Shaping the nation’s destiny
The year 2023 in Kazakhstan marked the culmination of significant political reforms, he remarked. It was a year which witnessed the operational launch of the Constitutional Court and the successful conduct of elections under new rules.
President Tokayev emphasises the commitment to addressing pressing social issues, with the construction of schools and medical facilities in villages, and the introduction of the Social Code aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens.
As the Kazakhstan nation gears up for 2024, the focus is on building momentum for the next five years of development. Furthering his vision forward, to deepen and manifest progress, the views below are ideals extracted from the Egemen Newspaper which include pressing issue re written to suit diverse readers of global affairs beyond Kazakhstan.
Setting the stage for 2024: A year of milestones
President Tokayev outlined his expectations for 2024, highlighting the transition to a new economic model with the strategic goal of doubling GDP by 2029. The upcoming extended government meeting and the National Kurultai in spring will shape the agenda for the economic, socio-political, and humanitarian spheres in the coming year.
Kazakhstan’s balanced foreign policy, hosting of international summits, and the World Nomadic Games underscore the nation’s global engagement and commitment to cultural exchange.
Reflecting on January events: Unravelling the complex dynamics
Addressing the tragic events of January, President Tokayev delves into the root causes, emphasising the role of unresolved socioeconomic problems and a general stagnation that permeated both authorities and society.
The President highlights the orchestrated attempt to exploit the contrived model of dual power, leading to a collision of roles between the President and the Chairman of the Security Council.
He credits the unity of citizens and decisive actions across the power structure for averting a more significant catastrophe.
The quest for stability: A lesson learned
In response to allegations of a popular uprising, President Tokayev asserts that peaceful demonstrations do not involve armed participants, or the destruction of public and private property. Characterising the events as a revolution undermines the severity of the crimes committed and the orchestrated violence witnessed during January.
He as President calls for a united stance against lawlessness, emphasising the responsibility of the State and society to condemn criminal acts. Navigating dual power dynamics: Lessons for the future President Tokayev candidly addresses the perception of dual power during his presidency, acknowledging attempts to impose a model of dual power.
He underscores the collision of roles as a contributing factor to the January crisis. The President emphasises the need for a sustainable and effective system of state institutions, warning against political manipulations that could threaten national unity.
Irreversible reforms: Building a strong foundation
Turning to political reforms, President Tokayev expresses confidence in the irreversibility of changes initiated in 2019. The reestablishment of the Constitutional Court, the expanded powers of the Mazhilis, and explicit principles set in the Constitution contribute to a more balanced political system.
The President asserts that Kazakhstan’s political reforms are not only systemic but, more importantly, irreversible, with citizens actively participating in the democratic process.
A firm commitment to human rights
President Tokayev responded to claims of political prisoners by highlighting the absence of censorship, special laws, or penal institutions designed for political repression. He underscores the legislative amendments that have strengthened human rights protection and the operational role of the Human Rights Ombudsman.
Peaceful rallies have multiplied, demonstrating the transparency and fairness of the reformed system. In addressing the honouring of national heroes and historical figures he emphasised on strengthening national unity.
Tokayev addressed circulating rumours about potential constitutional amendments and his candidacy in the 2026 presidential elections. He categorically denies such speculations, emphasising the unchangeable provision of a single seven-year term in the Constitution.
As Kazakhstan’s President he reiterates his commitment to the well-being of citizens and the nation’s continued progress.
Kazakhstan is now a nation on a remarkable new path to progress, including holding free and fair elections, promoting tolerance, ensuring free and independent press, in order to support the Kazakhstan peoples greater stake in a democratic future, a future that embraces prosperity, with a foreign policy that welcomes new partners around the world.
•The writer is an Advocate of the High Court and writer on International Affairs and legal opinion. Mobile: +255747130688 Email: novartigoshaj@gmail.com
