WNAM MONITORING: In an interview with the Ana Tili newspaper, Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev commented on the information about transition from a presidential to a parliamentary form of government.
The President also dispelled the rumors about early parliamentary elections, saying that “the government is a more flexible mechanism, changes in its composition are possible.”
It is rumored that a fundamental reform is being prepared, providing for transition of Kazakhstan to a parliamentary system. How realistic is that?
Indeed, the parliamentary system has a right to exist, taking a foothold in a number of European and even Asian countries. In general, there is no universal formula for power; each state, when choosing a political system, is guided by historical context, national mentality, and political practice.
My Executive Office thoroughly studies the world practice. You must admit that the parliamentary system in post-Soviet countries has not yet shown itself in the best light, the recent events in Georgia clearly speak in favor of this conclusion. The choice of the political system of state power is an extremely responsible decision, it should not be made behind closed doors, but only through a nationwide referendum.
I am confident that my concept “Strong President-Influential Parliament-Subordinate Government” is best suited for the political system of Kazakhstan. We have to work hard to fully implement this concept. I am sure that the presidential form of government is the most optimal for Kazakhstan at this point and in the near future.
Neither I, nor any of us are entitled to make a decision inflicting stable, sustainable development of our state. There is no room for error. Eventually, all constitutional innovations, the reform of the Parliament, the election of akims of villages, districts and cities, the creation of the National Kurultai and, most importantly, the focus on the rule of law – all this serves as a reliable guarantees against political stagnation.
Answering the question about the possibility of early parliamentary elections in Kazakhstan, the President said he knows that such forecasts exist. “In my opinion, Parliament members are working productively, demonstrating civic and political responsibility. As for the Government, it is a more flexible mechanism, changes in its composition are possible, given the position of the ruling party Amanat and other parliamentary parties,” said the President.“ In my opinion, there are no prerequisites for early parliamentary elections yet. The elections will be held within the timeframe stipulated by law. The Parliament targets on a long-term work. The Government works in line with the approved programs and plans, gradually moving towards achieving positive results. The strategic task is to ensure sustainable socio-economic development of the country and to strengthen regional leadership,” Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed.
