Law on the Constitutional Court – what changes?
The Constitutional Court retains its role as guarantor of constitutional supremacy. The new model changes the composition from 11 to 10 judges, the appointment process, and term length; citizen applications have been accepted since January 1, 2023.
Status
✅ In force – the updated law on the Constitutional Court has been in force since July 1, 2026
Current State
The Constitutional Court of Kazakhstan has been operating since 1 January 2023 (replaced the Constitutional Council). It ensures constitutional supremacy and reviews appeals from citizens, deputies, the President, and courts regarding constitutionality of laws.
What the New Constitution Changes
Composition
| Parameter | Was | Now |
|---|---|---|
| Number of judges | 11 (Chair + 10) | 10 (appointed by President) |
| Term | 6 years | 8 years |
| Who appoints | 4 President, 4 Senate, 2 Mazhilis | All 10 – President with Kurultai consent |
Powers
- Resolving disputes about elections and referendums
- Reviewing constitutionality of laws before presidential signature
- Interpreting constitutional norms
- Reviewing citizen appeals (preserved)
New
- Presidential voluntary resignation is filed through the Constitutional Court
- Enhanced role in presidential impeachment
Related Constitution Articles
Section VI: Art. 71–76 of the new Constitution
Implementation status
In force Current modelThe Constitutional Court operates and has accepted citizen applications since 1 January 2023; the new Constitution preserves this mechanism.
Next step: Monitor new Court decisions and application of the 2026 Constitution.
Verified 15 July 2026Basis for this explainer
Constitutional provisions and primary sources supporting this explanation.
Constitutional provisions
Primary sources
Open sources the editorial team used to verify this explainer. Checked 16 July 2026.
Related articles
Quick links to the constitutional articles behind this explainer.