Why It Matters to Adopt the Constitution by Referendum

Adopting the Constitution by referendum gives it especially strong political and public legitimacy. Today, March 15, the citizens of Kazakhstan are voting directly – the basic law is being approved not only by state institutions, but by the people themselves.

Referendum 1 min read 📄
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Direct legitimacy

The Constitution is the foundation of the state. That is why direct public participation in its adoption or revision carries special democratic weight. A referendum gives the Constitution a level of legitimacy higher than that of an ordinary law.

Why this matters democratically

Through a referendum:

  • citizens directly express that they are the source of power
  • the level of public consent becomes more visible
  • the legitimacy of reform is strengthened

Difference from parliamentary adoption

Parliament acts on behalf of the people. In a referendum, the people act directly. For constitutional change, that distinction has both symbolic and legal importance.

Importance for public trust

If the basic law is approved by direct vote, public acceptance may become stronger as well. This can help later implementation, explanation, and institutional transition.

Important limitation

A referendum does not automatically guarantee a perfect decision. Its democratic value depends on several conditions:

  • access to open information
  • a fair procedure
  • real conditions for informed choice

Main idea

A referendum matters because it allows the Constitution to rest on direct public approval rather than on institutional adoption alone.

Key facts

  • A referendum gives the Constitution especially strong public legitimacy
  • It expresses direct popular sovereignty
  • It differs from parliamentary adoption because citizens decide themselves
  • Its democratic value depends on openness, fairness, and informed choice
Related questions

What Questions Can Be Put to a Referendum

A referendum is intended for issues of fundamental public and constitutional importance, not for routine administrative decisions. It is the mechanism by which citizens directly decide questions affecting the foundations of the state, the constitutional order, or other matters of nationwide significance.

Minimum Turnout Requirement and Current Figures

Yes, a referendum requires participation above 50% to have full legal force. Additionally, 'Yes' must prevail in at least 2/3 of regions. According to the CEC, as of 18:00, turnout has reached 70.98% (8,845,280 citizens received ballots) – the 50% threshold has been exceeded. A repeat referendum cannot be held for at least one year.

What Is Happening and What Comes Next

Voting took place on 15 March 2026. 87.15% voted in favour at 73.12% turnout. The Constitution was adopted and enters into force on 1 July 2026. Elections to the Kurultai (168 seats) follow within 2 months.

What Campaigning Rules Apply Before the Referendum

Campaigning is permitted from 12 February to 13 March – both 'For' and 'Against' on equal terms. 14 March is a day of silence: no campaigning. 15 March is polling day. Prohibited: vote-buying, coercion, abuse of official position. These rules apply online as well.