Tokayev announces early maslikhat elections

Tengrinews.kz – Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that a large-scale transformation of the entire public administration system is taking place in the country in line with the demands of the time, citing Akorda’s press service.
The President emphasized that this work must continue.

“The final stage of the transformations will be elections to maslikhats at all levels. Current deputies of local representative bodies retain their powers until they are terminated on the grounds provided for by the Constitution and laws. The vast majority of maslikhat deputies were elected from the Amanat party. At present, this party does not operate independently, as it has joined the Adilet party,” Tokayev said.

The President recalled that the legal procedures would be completed soon.

“From that moment, the question of the legitimacy of most of the maslikhat deputy corps will arise. However, it is important that maslikhats be able to fully perform their functions of representing citizens’ interests locally, approving budgets and overseeing regional development. In short, they must actively work to ensure well-being at the local level. Representative bodies must carry out their activities in accordance with the law. Therefore, in the near future, I will hold consultations with the Prime Minister and the Chair of the Kurultai on the early termination of the powers of maslikhats at all levels, following which I will sign the corresponding decree,” the President said.

After that, Tokayev noted, the Central Election Commission will need to determine the date of the upcoming elections.

“This step will open the way to forming a qualified and professional corps of maslikhats and will give new momentum to their work. I am confident that you, too, will make a significant contribution to holding these elections at a high and proper level,” he said, speaking at the first session of the Halyk Kenesi.

In addition, during the event, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized that Kazakhstan needs to deepen international cooperation and increase the volume of investment coming into the country.