Kazakhstan to give prosecutor general investor ombudsman powers
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Kazakhstan's parliament approved in second reading a bill granting the prosecutor general powers of an investment ombudsman. The amendments also transfer asset recovery functions to a new investor protection committee.
The Ombudsman Powers
The prosecutor general will act as investment ombudsman under amendments to the election law and the Administrative Offenses Code, approved by the Mazhilis on Thursday. Regional prosecutors will handle investor-related complaints locally, including filing lawsuits and appealing to cassation courts. The changes aim to strengthen investor protection by centralizing oversight in the prosecutor's office.
Broader Legal Changes
The bill also revises nearly 70 laws to align with the new constitution, replacing terms like 'parliament' and 'Mazhilis' with 'Kurultai'. It mandates publishing local community assembly compositions on local government websites. Additionally, it returns to the model of appointing district and city akims in coordination with maslikhats.
Other Amendments
The package includes transferring oversight of small courts to the Emergency Situations Ministry, improving penitentiary education methods, easing conditions in women's colonies, and clarifying administrative liability in gambling. First reading approval occurred on May 13, introducing penalties for refusing to post campaign materials and for unequal candidate conditions.
Criminal Penalties for Land Sale Rumors
Kazakh Prosecutor General Zhakip Asanov announced that individuals spreading false rumors about land sales to foreigners will face administrative and criminal liability. The statement targets provocateurs disseminating misinformation, with penalties including potential criminal charges.
Religious Freedom Restored
The supervisory collegium of the Kyzylorda Regional Court restored religious freedom for Jehovah's Witnesses in the Kyzylorda Region. The decision followed protests initiated by the General Prosecutor's Office, which intervened to uphold religious rights.
What's Next
The bill now moves to the Senate for approval. It remains unclear when the Senate will vote or whether further changes will be introduced.
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Kazakhstan to give prosecutor general investor ombudsman powers
