Mazhilis deputies are calling for decisive action to protect national traditions, internal unity, and public safety by legislatively banning radical religious movements.

Mazhilis Deputy Kazybek Isa has submitted an official inquiry to the Prosecutor General of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Chairman of the National Security Committee, sharply criticizing the rise of radical religious manifestations in the country.

The deputy's initiative aims to enshrine in law a ban on destructive movements.

"Three years ago in this very Parliament, we raised the issue of a legislative ban on destructive religious movements. What has happened since then? Where is the result? On the contrary, we see that these movements are becoming even stronger," Kazybek Isa emphasized in his inquiry.

The deputy cited recent incidents that, in his view, demonstrate the danger of such practices to society.

"First — a vicious attack by ill-intentioned individuals against the sacred Kazakh holiday of Nauryz! Second — the notoriously scandalous imam who 'gifted' his unwanted wife to another man, as if swapping a horse," the deputy noted.

Kazybek Isa paid special attention to an incident in Aktobe, where the wives of defendants appeared in court wearing niqabs.

"They were allowed into the courthouse with their faces covered. They were permitted to serve as legal representatives of the defendants while seated in niqabs. No warnings were issued," the Mazhilis deputy recalled.

In his opinion, such incidents undermine the authority of the legal system and pose a threat to national security.

"Yes, without a firm stance, the erosion of internal unity will lead to the decay of national foundations. And the fact that this is a matter of national security has been clearly demonstrated by the tragedies we have endured," he stressed.

The deputy expressed concern over the growing influence of individuals who have usurped the role of spiritual guides and preachers.

"How can we call 'teachers' those who, instead of delivering sermons that unite the nation and call for virtue, sow poison and turn against their own people? When will this situation end, where anyone can preach? What decisions and conclusions does the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan issue regarding them?" the deputy asked.

He emphasized that destructive movements divide society and turn young people into a potentially dangerous force.

"Those who spare no effort to transform our noble faith of Islam into a dangerous movement are now gaining strength again. The 'wolf in sheep's clothing' from destructive movements are splitting the country in two, and on a front without weapons, they are not only leading thousands of young Kazakhs astray but also turning them into a dangerous force against their own people, aimed at destroying the nation," Kazybek Isa declared.

For comparison, he cited examples of international practice.

"Even in the West — in Spain, for instance — while respecting the traditional religious beliefs of the population, they imprison those who desecrate the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad. Meanwhile, our 'godless' people mock Almighty Allah, the holy Quran, and the prophets online, saying whatever comes to mind," the deputy noted.

According to him, such behavior destabilizes national consciousness, undermines traditions, and threatens the spiritual and cultural integrity of the country.

Kazybek Isa stressed that a legislative ban on destructive religious movements is a matter of national security, not a restriction on freedom of worship.

"Radical organizations threaten social stability and create division. The state is obliged to protect the safety of its citizens and maintain public stability. State inaction will lead to social conflicts, extremist actions, and public unrest. A legislative ban is a measure to protect religion from destructive purposes, not a restriction of freedom. This is the final SOS signal of a ship lost in the ocean! This is our last chance. Any later, and it will be too late," the deputy concluded.

The parliamentarian also drew attention to the growing number of incidents and cases involving radical manifestations. According to him, the number of registered cases of participation in destructive religious organizations is rising every year, which, in his view, demands immediate action from state bodies.

The deputy believes the state must strengthen legislative regulation in the sphere of religious security.

He noted the need for strict oversight of preaching activities to prevent destructive influence on society.

In his opinion, it is important to actively prevent the spread of radical and destructive ideas among young people.

Furthermore, the parliamentarian emphasized that strengthening national unity must be achieved through comprehensive legal and educational policies.

Linara SAKTAGANOVA
Astana