Mazhilis Speaker asserts that a diverse Parliament enhances legislative transparency
Kazakhstan’s lower chamber of Parliament, the Mazhilis, has reported on the work of the deputies during the first session of its eighth convocation. Yerlan Koshanov, the Speaker of the Mazhilis, discussed the deputies’ accomplishments during a meeting with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on July 21.
According to Koshanov, the deputies proposed 20 bills during the session, out of a total of 82 bills considered. These include draft laws addressing various issues such as the return of illegally acquired assets, regulation of online platforms and online advertising, nuclear safety, liquefied gas circulation, and the regulation of electric scooter movement.
Koshanov also highlighted the changes in the chamber’s work following last year’s constitutional reform. With a diverse representation of six political parties and single-mandate deputies, the Mazhilis has become more transparent and has established a stronger feedback mechanism with the population. Deputies are now able to raise pressing issues through inquiries and questions to government officials.
During the previous session, the Supreme Audit Chamber presented its first report on heat supply management, which highlighted several industry problems. MPs submitted questions to relevant ministries regarding the modernization of thermal power plants and heat supply networks.
Currently, the deputies are holding meetings with the public in different regions of the country to gather proposals for the draft Water, Budget, Tax, and Urban Planning Codes. These codes will be the focus of their work in the upcoming session.
In terms of parliamentary diplomacy, Koshanov mentioned that the MPs had meetings with the heads of parliaments from Azerbaijan, Belarus, the Kyrgyz Republic, Russia, Türkiye, Uzbekistan, and representatives from other countries’ legislative bodies.
The work of the Mazhilis showcases the commitment of Kazakh deputies to address crucial issues and engage with the population. These efforts contribute to the development and progress of the country.
