Tokayev declares new constitution settles Kazakhstan's national ideology debate

September 24, 2026 at 11:37 AM2 min

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President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev told the first session of the Kazakhstan People's Council on September 24, 2026 that the constitution in force since July 1 has settled the country's national ideology debate. He said the document reflects Kazakhstan's past, present and future and sets the foundation for a Just, Progressive and Strong Kazakhstan. Tokayev also said his goal is to position Kazakhstan as a middle power on the world stage.

Key Facts

Tokayev spoke at the first session of the Kazakhstan People's Council on September 24, 2026.
The constitution entered into force on July 1, 2026.
Tokayev said the constitution's preamble emphasizes strengthening statehood on ancestral Kazakh land and preserving the thousand-year history of the Great Steppe.
Tokayev named Yerlan Tynymbaiuly Karin as responsible for overseeing the constitution's promotion, reporting to the president every two weeks.
Tokayev said his goal is to position Kazakhstan as a middle power on the world stage.

Constitution as Ideological Foundation

Tokayev said the constitution that took effect on July 1 has put an end to long-running debates on national ideology. He described the document as a mirror of the country's history, reflecting its past, present and future. The preamble states that Kazakhstan places great importance on strengthening statehood on ancestral Kazakh land and preserving the continuity of the Great Steppe's thousand-year history. Tokayev said this implies deep respect for the historical past and strict adherence to the precepts of ancestors. He listed the constitution's unshakable tasks as ensuring human and civil rights, the rule of law, national unity, public welfare, and the development of education, science and innovation.

Implementation and Oversight

Tokayev said the choice was made together with exceptional responsibility for the fate of future generations. He said the adopted constitution laid the foundation for a Just, Progressive and Strong Kazakhstan with a bright future and clear development prospects. The president called for the constitution to become a desk book for every citizen and warned against formalism and populism. He said the work of explaining and popularizing the constitution requires a thoughtful approach and should involve lawyers, scientists, teachers, volunteers, entrepreneurs, veterans and statesmen. Tokayev tasked the Presidential Administration with creating a comprehensive platform for this work and placed Vice President Yerlan Tynymbaiuly Karin in charge, reporting every two weeks.

Middle Power Ambition

Tokayev said one of the key foreign policy goals is to position Kazakhstan on the world stage as a middle power. He noted the need to further develop international cooperation and increase the volume of investment coming into the country. The president said he regularly participates in international forums and meets with leaders of many countries and investors. He stated that this goal is shared by the entire people of Kazakhstan and that the authorities will continue working to improve public welfare.