President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has ordered a special plan for reforming the army to be drafted within ten days. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
At a meeting with the leadership of the defense ministry, the head of state said: "Our army has remained in the past century. In addition, the command system must be restructured in line with the best international experience. And for that, our guidelines must be clear. This is within the power only of officers with broad outlook and literacy. The goal of the reform is to build an army of a new model."
Digital transformation and new approaches
The president ordered a digital transformation in the army, replacing people with technology wherever possible. "New approaches to developing the army are needed. Template decisions, deceptive methods, false reports that make everything look wonderful on paper are of no use to anyone," the president said.
Tasks assigned to the defense minister
The defense minister has been given a number of urgent tasks.
The first task is to ensure the effective spending of budget funds. "The allocated funds must increase the state's defense capability and yield maximum results. Wasteful spending and embezzlement must not be allowed. Not a single one of those exposed for such actions will escape responsibility," said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
The second task is reforming the Armed Forces taking into account modern threats. The Apparatus of the Security Council, together with the Ministry of Defense, must draft a special plan for reforming the army within ten days. The head of state also considers it necessary to introduce open criteria for selecting and evaluating specialists.
Military positions should be offered not to the leader's "own people" but to experienced and qualified personnel, the president said.
The third task is strengthening ideological and educational work within the army ranks. This work must be carried out in accordance with the main principles and values of the Constitution. The military history of the world and the advanced spiritual and cultural achievements of our nation and countries of the world must also be widely promoted. The army should be a school where professional training and knowledge are honed and patriotism is instilled. In it, the life and safety of every serviceman must come above all else.
"Defending the Fatherland is the sacred duty and holy obligation of every citizen. Every citizen who has dedicated his life to military service must clearly feel the care and support of the state. The army must not be a place full of fear and dread. The army must be an institution of high professional level, combining the former and current best models of educating young soldiers, the true patriotic citizens of our country," said the head of state.
According to the president, the media should disseminate objective information about military service, especially about servicemen who have received high praise and support from the leadership.
It should be noted that President – Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a meeting with the leadership of the defense ministry.