ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s transition to a unicameral parliament and the implementation of its new constitutional framework were among the key issues raised by foreign observers during the parliamentary vote taking place on Aug. 23. The country’s prospects for attracting international investment were also a major focus of their discussions.
From L to R: Glenn Agung Hole, Ken Moriyasu and Basel al-Haj Jasem. Photo credit: The Astana Times For international observers, the election to Kurultai, a new unicameral parliament, established under the Constitution adopted in 2026, represents more than a change in the structure of Kazakhstan’s legislature.
They said the new political system will ultimately be judged by its ability to strengthen accountability, ensure institutional stability and create a predictable environment for citizens and investors. Rachman Mohamad Fadjroel, Indonesian ambassador to Kazakhstan.
Photo credit: The Astana Times Indonesian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Rachman Mohamad Fadjroel said the country’s Constitution provides the foundation for its ongoing political reforms. “I believe the most important point in Kazakhstan is its Constitution, because this is the vision for the future of the country.
Article 1 defines Kazakhstan as a democratic, secular, social and law-based state,” Fadjroel told The Astana Times. He said the reforms underway are guided by these constitutional principles and demonstrate Kazakhstan’s commitment to democratic development. “Today’s Kurultai election is an opportunity to demonstrate how democracy works in Kazakhstan in practice,” he said, adding that the country’s election has sent a positive message to the international community.
Unicameral parliament as a new political chapter Domenico Palmieri, secretary general of the Italian Institute of Asia, described the election as a milestone for Kazakhstan, calling it the first major step in implementing the country’s new constitutional framework.
In an interview with The Astana Times, he said the transition to a unicameral parliament could streamline the legislative process and facilitate political reforms. “From my point of view, a unicameral system is better. It is easier to work smartly and efficiently,” Palmieri said, adding that its effectiveness will ultimately depend on the performance of the new parliament and government.