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Kazakhstan eyes move to unicameral parliament

В Казахстане уберут Сенат на референдуме Kazakhstan, Tokayev, Address, unicameral, parliament
Collage by Kursiv.media, photo editor: Dina Karamchakova

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced an initiative to switch to a unicameral parliament during a national address on Sept. 8, 2025.

According to Tokayev, uniting the two houses of parliament will enhance the efficiency of legislative power. He emphasized that this is an important issue that requires careful consideration. The reform should be discussed within civil society, among experts and in the current parliamentary formation. The president suggested one year for these discussions, followed by a national referendum in 2027 on the proposal.

He added that all key matters determining the fate of the government must be decided with the approval of the people.

President Tokayev also proposed that the unicameral parliament be elected exclusively through party lists, if the reform is approved.

During the same speech, Tokayev announced the establishment of a new Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development.