Kazakhstan introduces amendments to legislation on elections

On May 25, the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a number of laws. They include the introduction of direct elections of rural akims (mayors of regional districts), lowering the threshold for political parties to get elected into the Majilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan from 7% to 5% of votes, and the introduction of the “against all” option on voting ballots in all elections.

The introduction of direct elections of rural akims will facilitate the involvement of citizens and enhance the accountability of local government bodies towards the needs and issues of the population.

To be elected as an akim, a candidate must be at least 25 years of age at the time of the election and meet the necessary requirements.

Elections will be announced 40 days in advance and will be held 10 days before the expiration of the term of the incumbent akim. The term of the election campaign will be 30 days.

Lowering the threshold from 7% to 5% of votes for political parties to get elected into the Majilis of Parliament will increase political competition.  Introduction of the “against all” option on voting ballots is a democratic tool that enables voters to voice an alternative opinion, which creates conditions for the protection of the electoral rights of citizens.

These amendments to certain legislative acts on elections were adopted as part of President Tokayev’s concept of the “Listening state”, in the framework of the key initiatives of his political reforms’ package.