Kazakhstan held parliamentary elections on August 23, 2026, for a newly formed 145-seat single-chamber parliament that replaced the previous bicameral system [1, 2, 3]. The pro-government Adilet party, allied with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, won a landslide victory with roughly 71% of the vote, according to official and exit poll results [1, 2, 3]. The party is the successor to the former ruling Amanat party, which merged into Adilet earlier this year [1, 2, 3].
Five parties cleared the 5% electoral threshold to enter parliament: Adilet, Auyl, Respublika, Ak Zhol, and the Nationwide Social Democratic Party [1, 2, 3]. Vote shares for these parties ranged from about 71% for Adilet to just over 5% for the Nationwide Social Democratic Party. Voter turnout was reported at approximately 74% [1, 2, 3].
The new parliament was established under a constitution approved in a March referendum that streamlined the legislature and created a vice-president post [1, 2, 3]. The Supreme Court ruled before the election that President Tokayev can seek re-election under the new constitution [2]. Tokayev himself stated, "I have the right to be re‑elected in accordance with the law. Perhaps next year I’ll be able to give you a more specific answer" [1].
Adilet’s platform for the election emphasized state reform, economic development, digitalization, education, regional development, and social protection [3]. Observers noted the new parliament is intended to have greater legislative weight compared to the former largely ceremonial legislature [2].
The elections marked the first under the new political structure after the Amanat party merged into Adilet between May and June 2026 [1, 2]. Official results were announced on August 24, confirming the party’s dominant position [1, 2, 3].
President Tokayev’s legal ability to run for a new seven-year term under the new constitution remains a key element shaping Kazakhstan’s political trajectory [2]. The next major political event will likely be the president’s decision on whether to stand for re-election, expected next year.
