Kurultai elections: 107 polling stations to open at 6 AM

Kazakhstan is set to inaugurate a new era of its legislature with the first elections for the Kurultai on August 23. This marks the tenth parliamentary election since the country's independence in 1991 and the inaugural vote for the Kurultai, established under the new constitution following a 2026 referendum. The transition signifies the dissolution of the previous Mazhilis and Senate, paving the way for a new legislative body comprising 145 deputies elected for five-year terms.

To facilitate the electoral process, 10,423 polling stations will be operational across Kazakhstan. A select 107 stations will commence voting at 6:00 AM, catering to citizens registered in military units, medical facilities, continuous operation sites, remote work locations, and temporary detention centers. These early-opening stations may conclude voting once all registered individuals have cast their ballots. The majority of polling stations will open at 7:00 AM and close at 8:00 PM.

The Central Election Commission (CEC) has accredited 656 observers to ensure the integrity of the elections, with 405 international observers representing seven foreign states and nine international organizations joining the process. Voters are reminded of the prohibition against photographing completed ballots on election day, with violations potentially incurring fines up to 130,000 tenge. The formation of the Kurultai will lead to the resignation of the current government, and the newly elected deputies will be responsible for electing the Speaker and three Deputy Speakers of Parliament.

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The Central Election Commission has currently accredited 656 observers. Today alone, the CEC accredited an additional 405 international observers representing 7 foreign states and 9 international organizations.