The 2022 Constitutional Reform – The Legal Foundation for Building a Just Kazakhstan

Abstract

The article is dedicated to a comprehensive analysis of the 2022 constitutional reform in the Republic of Kazakhstan, which marked the transition from a super-presidential model to a more balanced presidential republic with an enhanced role of Parliament, accountable Government, and independent judiciary. A central element of the reform was the restoration of the Constitutional Court, which has taken a key position in ensuring the supremacy of the Constitution and the protection of human and civil rights and freedoms. The author thoroughly examines innovations in public administration, including the democratization of the electoral system, restrictions on party affiliation for high-ranking officials, increased transparency in the appointment of regional governors, as well as the institutional strengthening of the Human Rights Commissioner. Special attention is given to the expansion of entities entitled to appeal to the Constitutional Court, which became an important step in the development of human rights protection mechanisms. Using specific examples, the article analyzes the normative rulings of the Constitutional Court, their legal positions, and their impact on the development of legislation, law enforcement practice, judicial oversight, and prosecutorial supervision. The reform is considered the foundation for building a fair, legal, and democratic state.