Kazakhs to vote on new constitution in referendum on Sunday
By Mariya Gordeyeva
Published on March 13, 2026.
Kazakh is set to hold a referendum on a new constitution that could allow President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to remain in power beyond his current term limit of 2029. The proposal includes merging parliament's two chambers into one and restoring the post of vice-president, abolished in 1996, to be chosen by the president. However, some analysts argue the draft retains an excessively powerful presidency. The referendum is seen as a "truly historic moment" for Kazakhstan, which is moving towards a greater separation of powers. State-approved pollsters say a large majority of voters back the new constitution, while public opposition to it has been subdued.
Read Original Article