Kazakhstan Annuls Law On The First President
Kazakhstan became the latest Central Asian nation to annul a law that granted special privileges to its first president. On May 9, 2021, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree to abolish the law, which had been passed in 2018 and enabled former President Nursultan Nazarbayev to have lifetime immunity from prosecution. The move is seen as a step forward for Kazakhstan’s democracy and civil rights, as it signals a shift away from authoritarian rule.
Nazarbayev Resigns as Head of Security Council
In addition to repealing the law, President Tokayev also announced that Nazarbayev would step down from his position as Head of the Security Council. This move is seen as a symbolic gesture, as it further distances Nazarbayev from any political power. Nazarbayev had held the post since the early 1990s, and his resignation is seen as a sign of the country’s transition to a more democratic system.
Kazakhstan’s Political System
Kazakhstan has seen a gradual transition towards a more open political system since it gained independence in 1991. The country is a constitutional republic with a president elected by popular vote. Political parties are allowed to exist, though the ruling party has maintained a majority in the legislature since 2005.
Rights of Citizens
The annulment of the law granting special privileges to Nazarbayev is seen as a sign of progress in terms of civil rights for citizens of Kazakhstan. The country has seen a gradual improvement in its human rights record in recent years, and the move to abolish the law is seen as a positive step in that direction.
Kazakhstan’s Economic Prospects
Kazakhstan is a resource-rich country that has seen steady economic growth since the early 2000s. The country is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union and has a free trade agreement with Russia and other CIS countries. The annulment of the law on the first president is seen as a positive sign for the country’s economic prospects, as it signals the government’s commitment to a more democratic system.
Foreign Relations
Kazakhstan’s foreign relations have improved significantly in recent years, as the country has sought to strengthen its ties with the West. The country has signed numerous bilateral investment treaties and agreements with the European Union, the United States, and other countries. The annulment of the law on the first president is seen as a signal that the government is committed to furthering Kazakhstan’s foreign relations.
Criticism of the Law
The law granting special privileges to Nazarbayev had been criticized by human rights groups and opposition leaders, who claimed that it was an undemocratic measure that undermined the rule of law. Critics argued that the law allowed Nazarbayev to remain above the law, and that it was a sign of authoritarian rule.
Regional Implications
Kazakhstan’s decision to annul the law on the first president is seen as a sign of progress in the region. The move is seen as a positive step towards further democratization in Central Asia, and it could pave the way for similar reforms in other countries in the region.
Conclusion
The annulment of the law granting special privileges to Nursultan Nazarbayev is seen as a positive step for Kazakhstan’s democracy and civil rights. The move is seen as a sign of the government’s commitment to a more open and democratic system, and it could have positive implications for the region as a whole.
