Kazakhstan Approves New Constitution, Securing President's Power

Kazakhstan held a referendum Sunday on a new constitution, with results indicating overwhelming support for the changes. The vote could allow President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to potentially extend his time in power beyond his current term ending in 2029. The constitutional reforms consolidate the parliament’s two chambers into one and grant the president the authority to appoint all government officials, including reinstating the position of vice-president. Tokayev initiated the changes, citing the need for swift decision-making in a rapidly evolving world. Exit polls and official results released Monday showed approximately 87.15% of voters approved the new constitution. Analysts suggest the reforms may provide a pathway for Tokayev to circumvent term limits and seek reelection. The changes have raised concerns regarding civil liberties and a potential tightening of presidential control over Kazakhstan’s institutions, a major energy exporter in Central Asia.