Kazakhstan Adopts New Constitution in Historic 2026 Referendum
Kazakhstan has approved a new constitution after a nationwide referendum held on 15 March 2026. The vote met the required turnout, with officials confirming participation levels. Among the early voters was Foreign Minister Yermek Kosherbayev, who cast his ballot in Astana at polling station No. 51, located inside the Palace of Schoolchildren.
The referendum introduces sweeping changes to Kazakhstan's political system. The bicameral parliament has been abolished and replaced by a single-chamber Kurultai, whose members will now be elected solely through party lists. The constitution also creates a vice presidential role to ensure smooth succession and grants the president broader authority. This includes the power to appoint heads of the central bank, the secret service, and the prosecutor general's office. Impeachment, meanwhile, will only be possible in cases of high treason.
Beyond political reforms, the new constitution defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman. It also asserts the primacy of national law over international agreements and strengthens protections for data privacy and travel rights. However, freedoms may now face restrictions if deemed to threaten public order or morality. Critics argue the changes concentrate power in the presidency despite claims of democratisation. Supporters maintain the reforms modernise governance and safeguard national stability.
The approved constitution marks a major shift in how Kazakhstan is governed. The Kurultai will now operate as the sole legislative body, while the president's expanded appointment powers take effect immediately. Legal and social provisions, including the definition of marriage and data protections, will also be enforced under the new framework.
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