Tokayev approves 126-member People's Council of Kazakhstan

September 22, 2026 at 12:55 PM2 min

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President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree approving the 126-member People's Council of Kazakhstan (Kazakhstan Khalyk Kenesi). The council is the highest constitutional consultative body representing the people's interests in state governance. Its first session is scheduled for September 23-24, 2026 in Astana.

Key Facts

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree approving the 126-member People's Council of Kazakhstan on September 22, 2026.
The council is formed on a quota basis: 42 representatives from ethnocultural associations, 42 from public associations and NGOs, and 42 from maslikhats and public councils.
The first session of the People's Council will take place on September 23-24, 2026 in Astana.
Council members are elected for a four-year term, and the chairperson is also elected for four years.
The council has the right of legislative initiative and can propose holding a nationwide referendum.

Council Composition

The People's Council of Kazakhstan comprises 126 members appointed by presidential decree. The council is formed on a quota principle with three equal groups of 42 representatives each. The first group consists of representatives from ethnocultural associations, the second from public associations and NGOs, and the third from maslikhats and public councils. The full list of council members was published on the Akorda website on September 22, 2026.

Powers and Functions

The People's Council is the highest constitutional consultative body representing the interests of the people of Kazakhstan. It replaces the Assembly of People of Kazakhstan and the National Kurultai, combining their functions. The council can develop proposals and recommendations on domestic policy, submit draft laws to the Kurultai, and initiate a nationwide referendum. It also organizes public platforms, consultations, hearings, seminars, and conferences to ensure nationwide dialogue. The council is responsible for organizing the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions and other humanitarian forums of state importance.

First Session and Term

President Tokayev signed an order to convene the first session of the People's Council on September 23-24, 2026 in Astana. Council members are elected for a four-year term, and the chairperson is also elected for four years. The chairperson can be proposed by the President or by at least one-third of council members. One person cannot hold the chairperson post permanently. No salary is provided for council members.