Astana: Around 12.6 million voters in Kazakhstan are heading to the polls on Sunday to elect members of the country's first unicameral parliament, known as the Kurultai, with seven political parties taking part. The election is a significant event following the adoption of a new constitution in March, which abolished the Senate in favor of a single-chamber parliament. This change aims to give the legislature a greater role in decision-making.
According to Emirates News Agency, the name Kurultai was historically used for political and military assemblies among Central Asian tribes during the medieval period. The elections are part of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's Fair Kazakhstan reform programme, which was launched in response to the aftermath of the 2022 unrest. This reform is seen as a step toward enhancing the political structure and stability of the nation.