When Will Kurultai Elections Be Held

Kurultai elections (168 seats) will be held within 2 months after the Constitution takes effect — approximately July–September 2026. 145 deputies are elected by proportional representation, and 23 are appointed by the President.

After the Referendum 1 min read 📄
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When Will the First Kurultai Elections Be Held

According to the transitional provisions of the new Constitution, Kurultai elections must be held within two months of the Constitution taking effect (July 1, 2026). The approximate period is July–September 2026. The exact date is set by the President on the recommendation of the Central Election Commission.

Composition of the Kurultai

The Kurultai is a unicameral supreme representative body. Its composition:

  • 145 deputies are elected by citizens through a proportional electoral system (party lists).
  • 23 deputies are appointed by the President of the Republic.
  • Total: 168 seats.

Electoral System

The proportional system means that citizens vote for a party, not for a specific candidate. Seats in the Kurultai are distributed proportionally to the votes received.

Key parameters:

  • Single national constituency — the entire country is one electoral district.
  • Threshold: a party must receive at least 7% of votes to enter the Kurultai.
  • Gender quota: at least 30% of candidates of each gender on party lists.
  • Term of office: 5 years.

What Happens to the Current Parliament

The Parliament under the 1995 Constitution — the Mazhilis and Senate — continues to operate during the transition period until the Kurultai is formed. Once the Kurultai is constituted and begins work, the Mazhilis and Senate cease their mandate.

Key facts

  • First Kurultai elections: approximately July–September 2026
  • 145 elected + 23 appointed by the President = 168 deputies
  • Proportional system: voting for parties, 7% threshold
  • Gender quota: at least 30% of candidates of each gender
  • Mazhilis and Senate continue until the Kurultai is formed
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.

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.

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.