The “Zheti Zhargy”, which explained the history, lifestyle, and foundations of the customs and traditions of the Great Steppe, became the true Constitution of the Kazakh people. The first stage of the legal system of the Kazakh nation dates back to the 18th century, when Kazakhstan was part of the Russian Empire, and continued until the early 20th century. The second stage was connected with the formation of the USSR. The third stage began in 1990, when Kazakhstan gained its independence.
On December 16, 1991, the Supreme Council of Kazakhstan adopted the Law on Independence and Sovereignty of the Republic. This historic day laid the constitutional and legal foundations of our state. From that moment on, Kazakhstan officially declared its independence to the world.
On January 28, 1993, the Supreme Council of Kazakhstan adopted the first Constitution of the independent state. This fundamental document not only laid the foundation for national independence but also marked the beginning of structural reforms in the system of state governance. The Constitution strengthened the position of the President: from then on, he became not only the Head of State but also the leader of a unified executive authority. Another innovation was the subordination of local representative and executive bodies to local state administration. Later, several articles were amended and supplemented.
On August 30, 1995, the new Constitution was adopted by national referendum. It became a “golden bridge” between the present and the future of the country. The Constitution enshrined globally recognized progressive ideas on human rights and freedoms, the democratic formation and development of state institutions, and the establishment of civil society in Kazakhstan. It guaranteed the protection of citizens’ rights and freedoms, ensured the development of the state, and promoted harmony in interethnic relations and religious affairs.
The Constitution consists of a Preamble, 9 sections, and 99 articles. The working group that drafted it included such prominent state figures as N.A. Shaykenov, A.K. Kotov, and B.A. Mukhametzhanov.
