Senators have adopted a package of laws on combating corruption. The documents introduce criminal liability for promising, offering, or demanding a bribe, and also strengthen restrictions for civil servants and employees of the quasi-public sector.
WHAT CHANGES HAVE BEEN ADOPTED BY THE SENATORS
According to the head of the staff of the Senate of Parliament, Maxim Spotkai, the innovations aim to prevent corruption risks, strengthen accountability, and eliminate conflicts of interest in the civil service and the quasi-public sector.
One of the key changes is the introduction of criminal liability not only for receiving and giving a bribe but also for promising, offering, or demanding a bribe.
Lawmakers have also established a full mechanism for preventing conflicts of interest. Civil servants and persons equated to them are prohibited from using their official powers for personal gain.
HOW THE RULES FOR CIVIL SERVANTS WILL CHANGE
The amendments introduce an obligation to declare personal interests and establish a procedure for actions when a conflict of interest arises.
Furthermore, restrictions on the joint service of relatives and related persons are strengthened. The new rules apply not only to cases of direct subordination but also to indirect influence, internal control, human resources support, and other forms of impact.
According to the adopted law, it is prohibited for the manager's nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and sons-in-law to work in the same department.
WHO WILL BE AFFECTED BY THE ANTI-CORRUPTION RESTRICTIONS
The circle of persons subject to anti-corruption restrictions is expanding. The changes will affect, among others, employees of the quasi-public sector and participants in projects funded from the budget and the National Fund.
The law also enshrines the operation of the digital personnel system "E-қyzmet". Personnel processes in state bodies and the quasi-public sector are being transferred to a unified digital format.
WHAT LIABILITY IS BEING STRENGTHENED
The adopted amendments tighten liability for receiving illegal remuneration in state organisations and the quasi-public sector.
At the same time, the administrative liability of legal entities for corruption offences is increased. For individuals, the statute of limitations for administrative corruption offences is extended from 1 year to 3 years.
Additionally, restrictions for persons who have committed corruption offences are clarified. A lifetime ban on employment will apply to positions related to the performance of state functions.