ASTANA – Yerlan Koshanov has been elected Chair of the Kazakhstan Khalyk Kenesi (People’s Council), a new consultative body established to strengthen dialogue between citizens and the state, following a proposal by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Speaking at a Sept. 23 first session, Tokayev proposed Koshanov’s candidacy. Photo credit: Akorda.
Speaking at a Sept. 23 first session, Tokayev proposed Koshanov’s candidacy, highlighting his extensive experience in public service and previous work as Chair of the Mazhilis, the lower house of Parliament.
“This is an authoritative position with constitutional status. Therefore, I believe it should be held by a person well known to society, capable of ensuring effective dialogue between citizens and the authorities,” Tokayev said.
Yerlan Koshanov. Photo credit: Akorda.
President Tokayev also described Koshanov as a responsible professional with extensive public service experience and said his work in the Mazhilis had contributed to implementing large-scale reforms.
“I am confident that as Chair of the Khalyk Kenesi, he will work productively and make a significant contribution to strengthening social harmony,” he said.
Tokayev highlights responsibility of council members
Tokayev also noted that the new consultative body includes highly qualified specialists and citizens who enjoy public trust and are known for their commitment to the country. According to him, the council brings together prominent public and state figures, entrepreneurs, activists and representatives of various professional fields.
“Honest service to the interests of the country is a great honor and a sacred duty. Each member of the Khalyk Kenesi bears a special responsibility,” Tokayev said.
He added that council members are expected to help strengthen unity and social harmony through their active participation. President Tokayev is expected to elaborate on the tasks and priorities of the Kazakhstan Khalyk Kenesi at the Sept. 24 session of its inaugural term.
Council brings together 126 members
The Kazakhstan Khalyk Kenesi consists of 126 members, each serving four-year terms. The composition was formed according to three equal categories, with 42 members representing each: ethnocultural associations, major public associations and other non-governmental organizations, and public councils.
The council represents all regions of Kazakhstan. Twenty members were selected from among maslikhat (local administrative body) deputies, including five who chair maslikhats in two cities of national significance and three regions. Some of the members also hold senior positions in hospitals, libraries, a metallurgical plant, sports organizations and regional business councils. Another 22 members represent regional and city public councils, including four council chairs.
Sixteen Khalyk Kenesi members have previous parliamentary experience. Thirteen previously served in the Mazhilis, four in the Senate, while one served in both chambers. Most of those with parliamentary experience come from the previous convocation.
The council includes 40 women and 86 men, with women accounting for 31.7% of its membership. Representatives of various ethnic groups account for 46 members, or 36.5%. The membership includes academics, including three members of the National Academy of Sciences, as well as teachers, doctors, journalists, writers, lawyers, trade union leaders and entrepreneurs. The council also includes an Olympic champion, an Olympic silver medalist and heads of sports federations, as well as two former ministers.
