Kazakhstan to Hold Referendum on Nuclear Power Plant in October
ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s referendum on construction of a nuclear power plant is scheduled for Oct. 6, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced during his annual state-of-the-nation address to Kazakh citizens at a joint meeting of Parliament on Sept. 2.
“I expressed my views on holding it last year, meaning this topic has been on the public agenda for a year. I believe it is a sufficient time for citizens to make an informed decision. In this regard, I support the government’s proposal. The nationwide referendum on the construction of a nuclear power plant will take place on Oct. 6 of this year, and today I will sign the corresponding decree,” he said.
Tokayev emphasized that the upcoming referendum would represent a broad national dialogue and exemplify the “listening state” concept.
“With such steps, we are shaping a new socio-political culture, laying the groundwork for new standards in making key state decisions,” he said.