Kazakhstan's Constitutional Referendum: Transitioning to a Unicameral Parliament and Introducing a Vice President
Kazakhstan is set to hold a nationwide referendum on a new constitution this Sunday. The proposed amendments, put forward by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, include transitioning from a bicameral to a unicameral parliament and introducing the position of a vice president. A constitutional commission was formed to oversee the drafting of the new constitution, which was deemed necessary due to the significant impact of the proposed changes on the current version.
The referendum will feature a single question on whether the voters accept the new constitution, which was published in February 2026. With over 10,000 polling stations set up across Kazakhstan and additional stations in embassies and consulates worldwide, the voting process will take place from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. local time. The referendum will require a majority of registered voters to participate for it to be valid, with the final decision needing an absolute majority.
Following the referendum, the results will be announced within seven days, and the new constitution coming into effect will lead to the dissolution of the current bicameral parliament and the appointment of a new cabinet. Additionally, new parliamentary elections will be held, and a vice president will be appointed within two months of the parliament's first session. International observers from various countries and organizations will monitor the voting process, with journalists from over 200 foreign media outlets accredited to cover the event.
In conclusion, Kazakhstan's upcoming referendum on the new constitution marks a significant step in the country's political evolution, with potential changes that could reshape its governance structure and leadership positions. The outcome of the referendum will determine the future direction of Kazakhstan's political landscape.