Kazakhstan Adopts New Constitution After Historic 2026 Referendum
Kazakhstan has approved a new constitution after a referendum held on March 15, 2026. The vote saw overwhelming support, with 87 percent of participants backing sweeping changes to the country's political system. Observers noted high turnout and an engaged electorate during the well-organised process.
The referendum introduced major reforms, including the merger of Kazakhstan's two parliamentary chambers into a single body called the Kurultai. It also created a vice presidency and removed parliamentary oversight of key appointments. The president will now directly control the selection of the Supreme Court president, Constitutional Court president, National Bank president, Prosecutor General, and National Security Committee chair.
Tynchtyk Shainazarov, chair of Kyrgyzstan's Central Commission for Elections and Referendums, praised the referendum's execution. He highlighted Kazakhstan's thorough preparatory work and the festive atmosphere at polling stations. Shainazarov described the constitution as the foundation of stability and peaceful life in the country. International observers also remarked on the strong public interest and smooth organisation of the vote. The chair of Kyrgyzstan's election commission congratulated Kazakhstan's citizens and wished the nation continued stability and progress.
The new constitution grants President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev greater control over judicial and security appointments. Critics warn these changes could allow him to extend his influence beyond his current term, which ends in 2029. The reforms mark a significant shift in Kazakhstan's political structure following the referendum's decisive outcome.
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