Kazakhstan votes in first elections under new single-chamber parliament

Kazakhstan went to the polls on Sunday for its first parliamentary elections since a constitutional overhaul created a new single-chamber legislature, the Kurultai. The vote marks a significant shift in the political structure of Central Asia's largest nation.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who has led the country since 2019, cast his ballot in Astana. The 73-year-old leader, a former Soviet official and diplomat who once worked at the United Nations, expressed optimism about the new legislative body's potential.

"I have high hopes for the Kurultai's election; I believe it will provide a major boost to our country's development," Tokayev said after voting. He emphasized that deputies should be accountable for the quality of laws and for fulfilling promises made during their campaigns.

The elections are the culmination of constitutional changes initiated by Tokayev in March, when 87% of voters approved a referendum merging the two parliamentary chambers into one. The reforms also grant the president authority to appoint key officials, subject to parliamentary approval, including reestablishing the vice presidency.

The ruling pro-presidential Adilet party is widely expected to secure an overwhelming majority, with several smaller parties loyal to Tokayev also anticipated to gain parliamentary seats.

When asked about his potential participation in future presidential elections, Tokayev said it was "too early to speculate," citing the many tasks facing the country. He described the coming period as one requiring the transformation of Kazakhstan into "one huge construction site."