Experts noted a significant level of support for the referendum and the strengthening of legal institutions
A round table organized by the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Kyrgyzstan took place in Bishkek, where experts, representatives of government agencies, and the media discussed the results of the constitutional reform and its impact on the political and institutional situation in the country.
At the opening of the event, Rapil Zhoshybaev, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Kyrgyzstan, noted that the new Constitution adopted in the referendum reflects profound changes in society and a demand for governance renewal.
In his opinion, these are not just changes, but a whole systemic transformation of the state model.
“The new Constitution represents a deep and large-scale transformation of the entire state system,” he emphasized.
The ambassador also pointed out the strategic goal of the reforms, which is to strengthen statehood and independence, increase citizens' well-being, and create a more balanced system of power. This implies enhancing the role of parliament, developing political institutions, and increasing public participation in decision-making.
“The referendum has become an important stage in the country's political development, reflecting the society's aspiration for renewal, justice, openness, and accountability,” Zhoshybaev added.
He noted that the voting results showed a high level of civic responsibility and public engagement in processes that determine the future of the state.
During the round table, participants also analyzed the organizational aspects of the referendum.
Abdyjapar Bekmatov, a member of the Central Commission for Elections and Referendums of Kyrgyzstan, who observed the voting, noted that the process was organized in accordance with international standards.
“The question put to the vote was clearly formulated, which ensured clarity and eliminated ambiguities in the interpretation of the results,” he added.
Bekmatov reported that over 73% of voters participated in the voting, and support for the constitutional changes exceeded 87%.
“This indicates a high level of public consensus and trust in the institutions of direct democracy,” he noted.
He also emphasized the extensive organizational work, which involved many members of electoral commissions, and a cascading training system was used for uniform application of legislation and minimization of procedural errors.
Additionally, Bekmatov highlighted the importance of informational openness: explanatory work was conducted through traditional and digital channels, including social networks, which contributed to increasing citizens' legal literacy.
Measures were also taken to ensure inclusivity, including creating conditions for people with disabilities and organizing voting for citizens abroad.
Discussing the essence of the reforms, legal and electoral process expert Mirlan Medetov emphasized that the changes aim to expand political participation and strengthen guarantees of citizens' rights and freedoms.
According to him, the reform is aimed at creating a sustainable system of public administration, taking into account national experience and the peculiarities of the development of power institutions.
Medetov highlighted key changes such as the introduction of the vice-presidential institution, the transition to a unicameral parliament (Kurultai) based on a proportional electoral system, and the creation of an advisory body — the People's Council of Kazakhstan.
In his opinion, the proportional electoral system promotes political pluralism, expands representation of minorities and women, and reduces the number of “lost” votes.
The expert also noted that special attention is paid to strengthening constitutional guarantees of citizens' rights, including the right to compensation for damage caused by the state, the introduction of Miranda rights, and ensuring the right to legal assistance from the moment of detention.
During the discussion, the round table participants concluded that the reforms in Kazakhstan are significant not only for the country but for the entire Central Asian region.
As noted, changes in the largest economy in the region affect the overall dynamics of development and set new benchmarks for neighboring states.
The key issue remains the practical implementation of the reforms, as the application of new norms will determine their ability to strengthen state institutions, increase public trust, and ensure long-term development.
