Kazakhstan Referendum Underscores Commitment To National Development - Tokayev

ASTANA (Kazakhstan), April 1 (Bernama-Qazinform) -- The recent referendum — the third consecutive nationwide vote — has shown the growing maturity of Kazakhstan’s political system and the readiness of its citizens to get directly involved in shaping the country’s future, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said.

According to Qazinform News Agency, Tokayev said a record turnout of 73.12 per cent, with 87.15 per cent voting in favour, reflected strong public support for constitutional renewal.

"Our citizens approved the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which reflects the true aspirations of the Kazakh people to live in a just and fair country based on the principles of law and order, unwavering respect for and protection of basic human rights and freedoms.

"It also reflects a modernised society and a strong commitment to promote education, science, technology, culture, ecology, volunteerism and patriotism," he said.

Tokayev added that it is a huge step forward to meet the expectations of future generations.

"I am confident that the new Constitution will serve as a 'road map' for many years ahead for our young people," he said.

He said the constitution was prepared carefully and with utmost diligence, with the Constitutional Commission — comprising 129 citizens — reviewing some 12,000 proposals from experts and civil society organisations over six months of public discussions.

"The new constitution creates a solid foundation and further reinforces our strategic vision of a 'Strong President, Influential Parliament and Accountable Government'," he added.

-- BERNAMA-QAZINFORM