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Kazakhstan is set to introduce significant changes to the procedures for renaming its cities and villages. Under the new regulations، the opinions of local residents will be given greater consideration when such decisions are made. This shift is formalized in the draft Constitutional Law "On Administrative-Territorial Structure."

Empowering Local Communities

Members of Parliament reviewed the draft law during a joint session of the chambers. According to Deputy Erkeülan Mâmbetov، the new legislation will strengthen the role of public opinion in the naming and renaming of settlements.

"The draft enhances the role of residents and public opinion in naming، renaming، specifying، and changing the transcription of place names،" stated the deputy. "This approach will ensure that the naming and renaming of administrative-territorial units and their components reflect the actual values and interests of the people."

Addressing Past Disagreements

While mechanisms for considering public opinion have existed previously، the new law aims to solidify and prioritize resident input. Previously، renaming a village involved submitting the issue to the local maslikhat (representative body) and holding general meetings to gather public opinion، with decisions made by majority vote. An onomastic commission would then provide its conclusions.

An onomastic commission is a specialized body responsible for the names of settlements، streets، and other geographical features.

However، disputes between residents and authorities regarding place name changes have been frequent. This legislative update appears to be a response to these ongoing issues، aiming to legally reinforce the role of residents in these significant decisions.

Presidential Emphasis on Careful Renaming

This move aligns with previous statements by the President of Kazakhstan، who highlighted the importance of considering public opinion in renaming streets and settlements. At the time، the President noted that such decisions were sometimes made incorrectly or influenced by private or local interests. He emphasized that renamings should be well-founded، reflect the country's history، and be conducted thoughtfully and deliberately.