Tokayev unveils Qazaqstan Halyq Kenesi at first session in Astana

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President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev addressed the first session of the Qazaqstan Halyq Kenesi in Astana on September 24, 2026, explaining the new body's name and purpose. He said the council will consolidate diverse groups and propose candidates for the El Birligi order. The president also praised predecessor institutions, noting the National Kurultai produced 26 laws and 10 pending bills.
Key Facts
- President Tokayev personally proposed the name Qazaqstan Halyq Kenesi to the constitutional reform commission.
- The name Qazaqstan Halyq Kenesi is the sole official version enshrined in the Constitution.
- The National Kurultai produced 26 laws and 10 more bills will be considered by the Kurultai.
- The Qazaqstan Halyq Kenesi will propose candidates for the El Birligi order, established several years ago by presidential decree.
Council Name and Mandate
President Tokayev said he had long planned a special institution for open discussion of national problems and concrete solutions. He personally proposed the name Qazaqstan Halyq Kenesi to the constitutional reform commission, saying it reflects the nationwide character of the new body. The Constitution states that the people are the sole source of state power and sovereignty, making the word 'Halyq' logical and justified in the name. The name Qazaqstan Halyq Kenesi is the single official version fixed in the Constitution, underscoring the body's high status and responsibility.
Predecessor Institutions
The Assembly of People of Kazakhstan, the National Council of Public Trust, and the National Kurultai previously handled key state tasks. Tokayev said these institutions fully fulfilled their historical mission, with the Assembly strengthening unity and promoting Kazakhstan as a territory of peace and accord. The National Kurultai deepened the national dialogue and produced 26 laws, with 10 more bills to be considered. The president expressed gratitude to all citizens who participated in resolving state issues and showed patriotism.
El Birligi Order Role
Tokayev said the Qazaqstan Halyq Kenesi, due to its constitutional status and broad representation, should propose candidates for the El Birligi order. The El Birligi order was established several years ago by presidential instruction and is awarded for strengthening national unity and public accord. The president praised young citizens of different nationalities who popularize the Kazakh language and culture, calling them true ambassadors of friendship.