Kazakhstan is set to conduct early elections for its local representative bodies, known as maslikhats, on November 29, as announced by the Central Election Commission. This decision comes in the wake of a decree by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev that ended the current powers of maslikhats across all levels.
The upcoming elections will determine the occupancy of 3,447 seats spread across regional, city, and district maslikhats. Specifically, this includes 668 seats at the regional level, 626 at the city level, and 2,053 at the district level. These elections are significant as they will shape local governance structures for the next five years.
Under the provisions of Kazakhstan’s election law, the Central Election Commission is required to call for early elections within a two-month timeframe following the early termination of a maslikhat’s powers. This ensures a timely transition and continuity in local governance.
Maslikhat deputies are chosen by the local populace through a process of direct, equal, and secret voting, serving terms of five years. This democratic process is crucial for maintaining representative governance and addressing regional and local issues effectively.
The announcement of these early elections underscores the government’s commitment to adhering to legislative procedures while facilitating local self-governance and civic participation in Kazakhstan.