Kazakhstan's new Parliament takes shape; to shape institution building in the country

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has outlined a broad legislative and institutional agenda for Kazakhstan’s first new Kurultai (Parliament), calling on deputies to modernize national legislation, strengthen the quality of lawmaking and help build a stronger system of checks and balances.

Speaking at the opening session of the first Kurultai on Aug. 28, Tokayev said the new legislative body has received significantly broader powers under the New Constitution and will play an important role in shaping the country’s system of government. “The beginning of the Kurultai’s activities gives a start to fundamental institutional changes in the system of public administration, since this body plays an important role in shaping the system of government,” he said.

The Kurultai will participate in appointing Constitutional Court judges, members of the Central Election Commission, and the Supreme Audit Chamber. Deputies will also have the authority to appoint and dismiss Supreme Court judges upon the President’s proposal, as well as address topics concerning the legal immunity of judges and deputies. According to Tokayev, these powers significantly expand the legislature’s influence.


During its first session, the Kurultai is expected to consider a package of key bills, including legislation on artificial intelligence in secondary education, digital assets and the Digital Qazaqstan strategy. Tokayev also highlighted Kurultai’s role in the broader renewal of Kazakhstan’s political and public institutions. He noted that the proportion of women and young people has increased significantly compared with the previous Parliament, describing the emergence of a new generation in government, public organizations and business as an important result of the reforms.