Today's Message is of particular importance. Its content and scope go beyond one year. We set ambitious goals for ourselves. Together we started building a New Kazakhstan.
Last year, our country reached an important milestone – the 30th anniversary of Independence. By historical standards, this is a small period. We have a clear image of the future and the contours of a New Kazakhstan – an effective state with a strong civil society.
We must implement the key formula of our state–building – "A strong President – an influential Parliament - an accountable Government". To do this, I propose a number of initiatives that, I am sure, will make this strategic vision a reality.
The ninth. Decentralization of local self-government Successful political modernization and development of civil society are impossible without further deepening of the process of decentralization of power. We will continue to transfer real powers from the center to the regions.
First of all, it is necessary to effectively differentiate the functions of the state and the institutions of local self-government.
It should be understood that a strong system of local self–government is the basic basis for the direct participation of citizens in improving the quality of life in their native locality.
Within the framework of political modernization, maslikhats should become a key link of local self-government.
Today they have a hybrid nature, being at the same time an institution of local public administration and local self-government. Therefore, it is necessary to clearly define the powers of maslikhats.
It is necessary to radically revise the system of financing the regions.
Currently, rural districts are completely dependent on higher akims and receive support on a residual basis.
Taking into account the introduction of elective mayors, it is advisable to introduce a mechanism for direct financing of local self-government bodies in accordance with international best practices.
It is also necessary to significantly expand their property base. With substantial resources, they will be able to really influence the situation and bear responsibility. Otherwise, it's just imitation, not self-management.
All the necessary preparatory work on this issue should be completed by the middle of this year.
Another important step will be the simplification of the procurement procedure for local governments, the elimination of bureaucracy and formalism.
I instruct the Government, together with the Presidential Administration, to work out in detail the mechanisms for implementing these instructions and take them into account when drafting the law "On Local Self-Government".
In addition, it is necessary to work out the issue of Kazakhstan's ratification of the European Charter of Local Self-Government, which is the basic international document in this area.
All these measures will contribute to the emergence of truly authoritative and responsible local leaders who are able to mobilize their communities to effectively solve problems of concern to people.
The real strengthening of the system of local self-government will open up new opportunities for the development of the regions, the reduction of dependent sentiments, the deep-rooted democratic transformations in the country.
"Indirect Tax Administration Department"