From Bicameral Parliament to the Kurultai: The Transformation of Legislative Power Under Kazakhstan's 2026 Constitution

Abstract

This article examines the replacement of Kazakhstan's bicameral Parliament by the unicameral Kurultai under the Constitution adopted in 2026. Using doctrinal and functional comparison, it contrasts the composition, representative basis, legislative procedure and oversight powers of the institutions created by the 1995 and 2026 Constitutions. The article identifies three principal results. First, the reform is not primarily a reduction in the size of the legislature: the Kurultai's 145 seats are close to the combined membership of the former Mazhilis and Senate. Its central effect is the concentration of national legislative authority in a single directly elected chamber. Second, the reform replaces the former combination of territorial, mixed and appointed representation with nationwide proportional representation through political parties, producing clearer electoral responsibility but removing constitutionally guaranteed regional representation and single-mandate links. Third, legislative scrutiny is transferred from an inter-chamber process to committees, hearings, opposition rights and plenary voting within the Kurultai. The article argues that unicameralism may improve speed and transparency, but it does not by itself create a stronger parliament. Its success will depend on internal scrutiny, political pluralism and the Kurultai's practical capacity to hold the executive accountable.