Yeleussizov passes examination for knowledge of state language

Mels Yeleussizov, chairman of "Tabigat" environmental movement, has passed the examination for knowledge of the state language today, September 22, to the CEC special linguistic commission, KZ-today correspondent reports from Astana.

"It's been long time that I have not worried so much. And I have not had such a difficult examination for a long time either. But the commission recognised that I am fluent in the language," - he told journalists after the examination.

Responding to questions, M. Yeleussizov observed that "now the collection of signatures will be the most difficult thing." The environmentalist leader said that he will make the main emphasis in his pre-election campaign on the country's environmental problems.

M. Yeleussizov submitted an application on registration as a candidate for president on September 21.

As per the legislation of RK, each candidate for the presidential position must be fluent in the state language. A special linguistic commission is created to carry out this examination. It includes a written exercise, answers to questions, and a 15 minute speech in the state language.

The next presidential election in Kazakhstan is due on December 4, 2005.