Parliament of Kazakhstan adopts law on People's Council of the republic

Deputies of the Parliament of Kazakhstan at a joint meeting of the chambers adopted a constitutional law on a new supreme constitutional advisory body — the People's Council of Kazakhstan.

The law was developed in implementation of the provisions of the new constitution of the country, adopted at the republican referendum on March 15. The document establishes a new institution aimed at developing mechanisms for public participation in the formation and implementation of state policy. It is envisaged that Kazakhstan Halyk Kenesi (People's Council of Kazakhstan) will consist of representatives of ethnocultural associations, public organizations and maslikhats (local representative bodies). Each of these groups will be represented by 42 members.

The term of office of the members of the People's Council will be four years. Its chairman will be elected on the proposal of the president or on the initiative of at least one third of the total number of members of the People's Council. The powers of the council include developing proposals and recommendations on issues of domestic policy, participating in the legislative process through the right of legislative initiative, initiating proposals for holding a referendum, organizing public discussions and dialogue platforms, as well as participating in public control. In addition, the People's Council is vested with the function of organizing and holding the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. After the adoption of this law, it is proposed to recognize as invalid the law "On the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan," which reflects the transition to a new model of public-state interaction.

After adoption by parliament, the law on the People's Council of Kazakhstan will be submitted for signature to the president of the republic.

Source: TASS