How will the Kurultai be formed?

The Kurultai is a unicameral parliament of 145 deputies in a new format. It replaces the bicameral system (Mazhilis + Senate). The formation procedure will be defined by a separate constitutional law.

After the Referendum 1 min read 📄
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What is the Kurultai

Under the new Constitution, the Kurultai is the sole legislative body of the Republic of Kazakhstan. It replaces the former bicameral system (Mazhilis of 107 deputies + Senate of 50 senators).

Composition

  • 145 deputies – elected for 5-year terms
  • Election procedure to be determined by the constitutional law on the Kurultai
  • The 2026 Constitution envisions a mixed system: some elected by party lists, others from single-mandate districts

Powers

  • Adoption of laws and constitutional laws
  • Budget approval
  • Consent to appointment of key officials (on the President's nomination)
  • Oversight of Government activities
  • Up to 23 committees (vs. 13 in the former Mazhilis)

When It Starts Working

  • Constitutional law on the Kurultai – expected in 2026
  • Elections to the Kurultai – presumably 2026–2027
  • Until formation, the current parliament continues under transitional provisions

Fact

If the Kurultai twice refuses the President's nominees, the President may dissolve it (Art. 4 of the 2026 Constitution).

Related questions

What changed after the new Constitution was adopted?

On 15 March 2026, citizens of Kazakhstan approved the new Constitution in a referendum. The document takes effect upon official publication of results. A transition period begins – adapting laws and launching new institutions.

When do the new constitutional laws take effect?

The Constitution itself takes effect immediately after results are published. But launching the Kurultai, the Vice President's office, and other innovations requires constitutional laws – their adoption is scheduled for 2026–2027.

When will the Vice President appear and what is the role?

The Vice President's office is established by the new Constitution. Appointed by the President, with a minimum age of 60. The main role is to ensure continuity of power if the President's term ends.

How will digital rights work in practice?

The new Constitution for the first time enshrines personal data protection and the right to submit electronic appeals to state bodies. Implementation will require subordinate legislation – expected in 2026–2027.