Kazakhstan Votes In First Kurultai Election, Tokayev Set To Tighten Grip On Power

Kazakhstan’s parliamentary election was held on Sunday for the first time under the country’s new unicameral system, with the vote widely expected to further strengthen President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s grip on power.

President Tokayev cast his ballot at a polling station in Astana as voters chose deputies to the newly created Kurultai, which replaced the country’s former two chamber parliament following sweeping constitutional changes approved in a March referendum.

The pro-presidential Adilet party is widely expected to emerge as the dominant political force, while several other parties contesting the election are also broadly seen as supportive of Tokayev. Reuters reported that Adilet, formed after absorbing the former ruling Amanat party, was leading opinion polls ahead of the vote.

The constitutional overhaul has significantly reshaped Kazakhstan’s political system. The March referendum was backed by 87% of voters and paved the way for a single chamber parliament while expanding presidential powers, including authority to appoint certain key officials with parliamentary approval and the restoration of the vice presidency.

The changes could also have major implications for Tokayev’s political future. Kazakhstan’s Constitutional Court has ruled that the constitutional amendments effectively reset the clock on his previous presidential terms, potentially allowing the 73 year old leader to seek another seven year term. Tokayev, who has been president since 2019, has not confirmed whether he intends to run again.

Tokayev has defended the reforms by arguing that Kazakhstan needs faster decision making amid rising geopolitical tensions and global challenges. He has sought to maintain a careful balance between Russia and Western countries, particularly since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine and the resulting sanctions.

The election is also taking place amid economic pressure. Inflation has remained a concern, while tax increases have contributed to public dissatisfaction. Authorities remain particularly sensitive to the possibility of renewed unrest following the deadly January 2022 protests, when demonstrations over fuel prices escalated into widespread violence.

At the same time, pressure on independent journalists and media organisations has intensified ahead of the election. Rights groups have raised concerns about criminal investigations, travel restrictions and other measures targeting journalists and government critics.

The case of independent journalist Lukpan Akhmedyarov has drawn particular attention. A criminal case was reportedly opened against him over allegations of disseminating false information after he published a list of Kazakh citizens fighting in Ukraine. He faces the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence.

The pressure on the media has added to criticism surrounding the political environment ahead of the election. The Committee to Protect Journalists also recently condemned the eight year prison sentence imposed on journalist Gulnara Bazhkenova, describing it as part of an escalating crackdown on independent media.

Tokayev has described the election as a historic moment for Kazakhstan, saying the country must continue its strategy of transformation amid unprecedented geopolitical tensions.