KZBlog

Gazeta.kz has a better summary of the President’s words on the referendum than my liveblogging on the Address. Could be because their Russian is better than mine.

In short (via Google Translate) he said:

I vetoed the law and sent it to the Constitutional Council, as it was given to me, and they must determine its constitutionality and legality. Only then will there be a final decision. What the Constitution demands, our law demands…The main thing I learned today is this signal from the people: do not leave your post, continue to work further. Whatever decision we, together, take after the verdict of the Constitutional Council, I promise that if my health and strength allow, if there is such unanimity and support from the people, I’ll work as much as I am able

It is notable that he brought it up at all. Many people feel that the reason this year’s Address wasn’t announced until late was that they were hoping the decision would be made before the President had to speak. It is also notable that he brought up health and strength, as there are people, both supporters and opposition, who feel that the President will be unable or unwilling to serve as he enters into his 70s.