Kazakhstan to adopt new constitution in 2026
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Kazakhstan is set to adopt a new constitution in 2026, according to DKNews.kz. The reform will restructure the balance of power and introduce changes to the political system. The exact date of the referendum remains unannounced.
Constitutional Reform
The new constitution will shift Kazakhstan from a super-presidential to a presidential-parliamentary system, according to DKNews.kz. The president will retain control over foreign policy and defense, while the parliament will gain greater authority over the cabinet. The reform also introduces a ban on the president holding party membership.
Political Impact
The changes aim to prevent the concentration of power seen under former President Nursultan Nazarbayev, who resigned in 2019. The new system will require the president to consult parliament on key appointments, including the prime minister. Analysts say the reform could reduce the risk of political instability.
Referendum Turnout and Approval
The Central Referendum Commission reported a voter turnout of 73% (9,127,192 people) and an approval rate of over 87% for the new constitution.
President's Endorsement and Draft Quality
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev described the draft constitution as a fundamentally updated and professionally prepared document at an extended government meeting. He stated that the draft reflects core values aimed at uniting the nation and promoting Kazakhstan's dynamic progress.
Referendum Requirement for Amendments
The new constitution, which took effect on July 1, mandates that any future amendments to the constitution must be approved by a nationwide referendum. This provision prevents unilateral changes by the government and ensures direct public participation in constitutional revisions.
What's Next
The government is expected to finalize the draft text by September 2026. It remains unclear whether the referendum will face opposition from established political elites.
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Kazakhstan to adopt new constitution in 2026
