Kazakhstan is set to hold its parliamentary elections in August, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced, marking a significant step in the nation’s political restructuring. This move follows the recent nationwide referendum where citizens overwhelmingly approved a new constitution aimed at modernizing the country’s governance.
President Tokayev revealed the election timeline during a meeting, emphasizing that the ballot will initiate a large-scale transformation of Kazakhstan’s political system. The upcoming elections are a direct consequence of the new constitution, which was overwhelmingly supported by voters in March. This constitutional reform significantly streamlines the country’s legislative body.
A major change introduced by the new constitution is the reduction of the parliament from two chambers to a single one. This new legislative body will be known as the Kurultai, a Kazakh word meaning “gathering,” intended to reflect the nation’s historical steppe traditions. The Kurultai will comprise 145 deputies, each serving a five-year term.
President Tokayev stressed the importance of providing ample notice for significant national events. He stated that a decree to officially call for the Kurultai elections would be signed once the new constitution is fully in effect. This will grant political parties approximately five months to prepare their campaigns and engage with the electorate. The current parliament is slated for dissolution on July 1, paving the way for the transition to the new legislative structure.