President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev criticized provocateurs who deliberately add fuel to the fire on the language issue on social media. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
Opening the first session of the People's Council, the head of state focused particularly on the language issue. According to him, today the Kazakh language is expanding its reach without any administrative or even political coercion and is becoming the language of the majority.
"It is especially pleasing that our youth speak Kazakh freely and competently. Our native language is in demand as the state language; we showcase our national culture and identity through our rich and expressive native tongue. The inability to say a single word in Kazakh has become a sign of ignorance. All of this is the result of joint work based on tolerance and trust," Tokayev said.
According to him, the current situation does not mean that other languages should be abandoned, nor does it give the right to push them out. In addition, the Constitution prohibits discrimination based on language, origin, nationality, religious views and beliefs, or any other grounds.
"Nevertheless, from time to time some hardened provocateurs on social media stir up ethnic discord, deliberately adding fuel to the fire. Their goal is one – to weaken society, undermine Kazakhstan's sovereignty, deprive the country of unity, and turn our peaceful and serene life upside down. In fact, they want to cut at the roots of the happy future of our children and grandchildren," the president noted.
In this regard, he particularly stressed that law enforcement agencies and the entire society must resolutely oppose this. It is necessary to act in accordance with the "Law and Order" principle enshrined in the Constitution.
"Language is the greatest good, a priceless gift given by the Almighty to humanity. Waging a struggle against any language is a stand against the Almighty and his blessings. Perhaps there is no greater foolishness than this," Tokayev said.