Kazakhstan begins voting in elections for new single chamber parliament – the Kurultai
On Sunday, voting began in Kazakhstan for elections to the new single chamber parliament – the Kurultai. The elections feature 545 candidates from seven political parties.
Every time people come to the polls, they are not just filling out ballots — they are choosing their future, their path and their identity. For Kazakhstan, these elections are particularly significant: they are being held for the first time under the new Constitution, opening a new chapter in the country's political life. Despite rain and everyday inconveniences, citizens are eager to fulfil their duty, understanding that their vote will shape the country's tomorrow.
According to Kazakhstan's Central Election Commission, voting began at 7:00 local time (02:00 GMT). A total of 10,423 polling stations have been set up, with more than 12.6 million registered voters. These are the tenth national elections since the country gained independence and the first held under the new Constitution adopted in March. Many voters in the capital Astana came to cast their ballots despite the rain. Provisions were also made for those unable to reach their local polling stations.
"I received a mail in ballot from Almaty because I'm here on business. We are all working to build the Kazakhstan of our dreams. That is why these elections mean so much to me. Today, I cast my first vote with all my heart," said Damira Digaya, a resident of Almaty. "Elections carry a heavy sense of family responsibility. Our whole family came together, partly to help the children understand what voting really means," said a mother who came to vote with her husband and daughter. "This is our future, and our future is here," said her husband.
Kazakhstan's Minister of Culture and Information, Aida Balayeva, also came to the polling station to cast her vote and expressed hope for the elected representatives. "A professional parliament that truly works for the people. Of course, it will also work closely with the people, because the Kurultai is elected by them. I believe that the Kurultai deputies will not let us down," she said.
The new Constitution of Kazakhstan, which came into force on 1 July, establishes a single chamber parliament of 145 members with five year terms. Previously, Kazakhstan had a bicameral parliament consisting of the Majilis, or lower house, and the Senate. The transition to a unicameral system is aimed at simplifying the legislative process and increasing the efficiency of representative government. These elections mark an important step in the constitutional reform launched in 2025 and formalised in the new Constitution adopted in March.
As CCTV+ reports, the first elections to Kazakhstan's new single chamber parliament demonstrate the country's commitment to political modernisation and strengthening democratic institutions. High voter turnout and active civic participation reflect the maturity of the electoral system and public trust in reforms. In the coming years, the new parliament will face key tasks in economic development, social welfare and international cooperation, and the success of this mission will depend on how well the deputies meet the expectations of their constituents.
