Kazakhstan Votes on Tokayev's Power Grab

0:00Global stories making news on March 15. Voters in Kazakhstan went to the polls on Sunday for a referendum on a new constitution. It would strengthen President Kassan Joe Martokayev's hold on power in the largest country in Central Asia. Key changes include merging the two houses of parliament into one and giving the president the power to appoint all government officials, including restoring the Vice President position. This marks Tokayev's second major constitutional shift in four years. The 72-year-old leader, a former diplomat, faces a single seven-year term ending in 2029. Analysts believe the reforms could reset term limits, allowing him to extend his rule like leaders in other former Soviet states. Experts warn the change is wide in presidential authority without improving democracy or meeting public demands for accountability. There's no organized opposition in government, and activists have had little time or impact to sway opinion through protests or calls to vote no.

1:01The plan also introduces a People's Council appointed entirely by the president to propose laws and referendums. It redefines marriage as only between a man and a woman, aligning with recent restrictions on certain social issues. Meanwhile, Kassan faces high inflation at 11.7%, tax increases, and fears of unrest like the deadly 2022 riots. Overfuel prices. Tokayev says the overhaul helps make quick decisions in a volatile world, aiming to prevent future disturbances by consolidating control. Appreciation to our sponsor for backing this episode. Comfort you can hear. Sound you can relax into, S-O-L-I-SOLY-PILLOW.com.