Kazhegeldin emphasized in an interview with Bild that in the new Constitution, the human rights mentioned in the preamble are effectively replaced by mechanisms that concentrate power in the hands of one person. "The people understand that human rights are ignored in the articles and chapters of this Constitution," he noted. The politician pointed out that citizens have the opportunity to take to the streets, but this does not guarantee stability.
We found Kazhegeldin's opinion on the document and the situation surrounding the referendum relevant and decided to highlight the most interesting points from his interview.
Reasons for the Adoption of the New Constitution
Kazhegeldin noted that the rush to hold the referendum—only four weeks for discussion—indicates the presence of two main tasks: to complete nearly seven years of power transition and to ensure his own transition. "Tokayev has repeatedly stated that he will propose amendments to the Constitution only in 2027," he added, pointing out that the new Constitution introduces the position of vice president, which, in his opinion, only increases the concentration of power.
According to Kazhegeldin, numerous problems arising in the country could lead to serious consequences if the authorities fail to cope with challenges such as inflation and economic difficulties. He also noted that the new Constitution will not last longer than its predecessor, and that a new generation of politicians may create a new constitution within the next ten years.
Pros and Cons of the Constitution Draft
The politician expressed the opinion that the draft of the new Constitution does not contain anything that could interest him. According to him, it is a classic model in which human rights rhetoric in the preamble is combined with authoritarian mechanisms. He emphasized that those who worked on the draft did not take into account serious institutional problems.
Kazhegeldin pointed out the absurdity that the only source of power—the people—will share its authority with the president for seven years, which does not correspond to the principles of a republic. He also added that the authors of the draft are not lawyers or political scientists; otherwise, they would have avoided such mistakes.
The Future of Tokayev
Kazhegeldin also commented on rumors that Tokayev may aspire to the position of UN Secretary-General. He noted that it will be difficult for the president to remain in power, given the existing tension and lack of resources to address social issues. According to him, Tokayev faces sabotage within the government and cannot establish control over the budget.
The politician emphasized that the future of the vice president elected by Tokayev does not guarantee stability in the transition, as everything depends on the economic situation in the country and the state's ability to cope with challenges.
The Return of the "Nazarbayev Family"
Kazhegeldin also noted that the new Constitution is partially considered "pro-Tokayev," but primarily it is a document created with the interests of those planning to come to power in 2028 in mind. He stated that after March 15, the doors for Nursultan Nazarbayev and his family will be closed; however, the remaining provisions of the Constitution provide opportunities for new political forces.
The opinion of Akezhan Kazhegeldin on the new Constitution of Kazakhstan was first published on K-News.
