Kurultay elections open new chapter in Kazakhstan’s constitutional reform
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The upcoming elections to Kazakhstan’s new parliament, the Kurultay, represent the next stage of a sweeping constitutional reform, political scientist Serik Sultanov writes in Kazakhstanskaya Pravda. Seven political parties are competing for 145 seats, with an average of four candidates per mandate, according to the Central Election Commission. The vote follows the adoption of a new Constitution in a July 2026 referendum that restructured state governance.
Constitutional Overhaul
The new Constitution, approved by referendum on July 1, 2026, replaced the previous presidential system with a model where the Kurultay becomes the key institution of representative power. The name ‘Kurultay’ deliberately evokes centuries-old traditions of public assemblies where critical state decisions were made, reflecting a desire to preserve national identity. Sultanov emphasizes that the body must now synthesize historical continuity with modern governance principles.
Political Competition
Seven parties are participating in the election, which the Central Election Commission estimates will see an average of four candidates per mandate. This level of competition, Sultanov argues, indicates growing political maturity and civic engagement. The open debate and contest for voter trust are seen as essential attributes of a democratic system, with the campaign expanding public dialogue and offering more avenues for citizen participation.
Building Trust
The effectiveness of the new parliament will be measured not just by the volume of legislation but by its tangible impact on regions and cities. Public trust, however, cannot be mandated; it must be earned through transparent operations, consistent decisions, and deputies’ willingness to engage openly with society. The first convocation, Sultanov notes, carries the extra burden of establishing parliamentary traditions and political accountability standards for the future.
What's Next
The newly elected Kurultay is expected to convene later this year, though an exact date has not been announced. It remains uncertain how well the parliament will balance the legacy of historical assemblies with contemporary legislative challenges and whether it can secure durable public trust.
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Kurultay elections open new chapter in Kazakhstan’s constitutional reform
