International observer Elena Kuleshova stated that she found no violations at the polling stations she visited in Astana during the first elections to Kazakhstan’s new unicameral parliament — the Kurultai. She also noted the organized work of the election commissions, the accessibility of information, and the conditions provided for voters with disabilities.
Kuleshova participated in the observation on behalf of the Global Fact-Checking Network. On election day, she visited polling stations in the Kazakh capital, attended their preparations for opening, and observed the voting process.
According to her, proxies of candidates and observers were present at the stations in advance. Information on voting rules and political parties was displayed on three boards in Kazakh and Russian. Kuleshova specifically noted that parties were presented in the same format and in alphabetical order.
“I would like to note the very high level of discipline and organization,” the observer stated.
Among the features she highlighted was equipment for people with disabilities. The stations had enlarged booths with low tables, as well as magnifying glasses and additional lighting for the visually impaired.
In addition, the election commissions prepared materials in Braille, special tactile forms, and audio instructions with information on parties and voting procedures. These measures were aimed at enabling voters to independently familiarise themselves with the procedure and make their choice.
Kuleshova also said that on election day she did not notice any attempts to spread disinformation or discredit parties. According to her, the media correctly observed the election silence.
First elections to the Kurultai
The vote on 23 August was the first since the constitutional reform that came into force on 1 July 2026. The reform abolished the bicameral parliament and replaced it with a unicameral Kurultai.
The new parliament consists of 145 deputies elected for a five-year term. The elections are held under a proportional system: voters vote for party lists in a single nationwide constituency. Seven parties and 545 candidates are taking part in the elections. Independent candidates are not participating in the election campaign.
A total of 10,423 polling stations were opened for voting, including stations at diplomatic missions abroad. More than 12.6 million citizens were included in the voter lists. According to the Central Election Commission, turnout at the close of polling was 74.19%.
