How the US Views Kazakhstan’s Constitutional Reform and Free Speech
Photo: Constitutional Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan
U.S. Ambassador to Kazakhstan Julie M. Stufft commented on constitutional reform and freedom of speech in Kazakhstan, Orda.kz reports.
She described the reform package as «ambitious» and said that it had been implemented very quickly. The embassy is currently collecting feedback.
«Yes, indeed, a very ambitious package of reforms was announced within a very short timeframe, meaning very rapid reforms. So yes, we are continuing to collect feedback from all participants in the process,»she said
Ms Stufft also revealed that she had met with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on 13 February specifically to discuss the issue.
«He had some time free this morning, so we also discussed the reform programme with him. We continue to monitor the situation, and of course everyone understands that the constitution’s main purpose is to protect citizens’ rights — this is reflected in the relevant changes,» she said
During the press conference, she was asked how the U.S. presidential administration views the persecution of independent journalists in Kazakhstan. Orda.kz, for instance has dealt with similar pressure before.
«Freedom of speech is one of the core values of the United States, and yes, we constantly see examples of it in the U.S. news. Regarding this situation, yes, we are monitoring it. As it is an ongoing investigation, I cannot comment directly on it, but my team briefs me daily on the latest developments, so yes, we are following this situation,»the ambassador added.
Original author: Ilya Astakhov
Latest news
- Why Are Kazakhstanis Leaving Southern Regions In Large Numbers?
- Tokayev Criticizes Banks For Delaying QR Payments
- Kazakhstan Launches New Preferential Loans For Livestock Breeders
- Rare New Guinea Monitor Lizards Arrive At Almaty Zoo
- Malaysian Automaker Proton Eyes Kazakhstan Production With Allur
- A Russian Teen Who Crossed Into Kazakhstan on Foot Wins Appeal Against Expulsion
- Regional Revenues, Global Instability, And The Referendum: What Tokayev Told Deputies
- Digitalization Of Customs Or New Barriers? What Entrepreneurs Fear In Kazakhstan’s New KEDEN System
- Astana Could Become An International Aviation Leasing Hub
- Kazakhstan’s First Tagged Eurasian Black Vulture Found Dead in India
- Kazakhstan Replaces Russian Turbines With Chinese Equipment for Ekibastuz Power Plant No. 2
- How Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, And Azerbaijan Will Export Electricity To Europe
- Kazakhstan Explains How Russians Who Fled Mobilization Can Be Deported
- Kazakhstan and Japan discuss hydrogen partnership with export potential
- Russia Thanks Tokayev for Initiative to Support Russian Language
- Almaty Could Restrict Cars Under Beijing-Style Anti-Smog Plan
- Tigers in Kazakhstan Are in No Rush to Breed
- What Changes Are Being Prepared Under the New Tax Code
- Alcohol and Tobacco Prices in Kazakhstan See Sharpest Monthly Rise in 15 Years — Analysts
- Middle East Conflict Will Not Lead to Higher Gasoline Prices in Kazakhstan — Minister
