CIS Observer Mission declares Kazakhstan's Qurultay elections fair and open

According to head of the mission Igor Petrishenko, the elections were conducted at a high organizational level and in accordance with Kazakhstan's electoral legislation.

At the invitation of Kazakhstan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the mission monitored the election process from August 3, with 190 observers overseeing preparations and voting in accordance with national legislation and the principles of openness, neutrality, and non-interference.

“Kazakhstan's electoral legislation is consistent with generally recognized principles and applicable norms of international law and provides a sufficient legal basis for holding free and democratic elections,” Petrishenko said.

According to the mission, the Central Election Commission, as well as territorial and precinct election commissions, took the necessary measures to prepare for and conduct the vote. The nomination and registration of political party lists were also carried out in accordance with constitutional law.

Petrishenko noted that the participation of a large number of political parties ensured a competitive campaign, with parties given equal conditions and broad opportunities to campaign freely.

On election day, CIS observers visited more than 900 polling stations, including polling locations abroad. According to the mission, all stations opened on time, with voting proceeding smoothly and in a calm atmosphere.

“The vote-counting procedure was conducted in accordance with constitutional law. Individual observations raised by monitors were technical in nature and were promptly addressed by precinct commissions. No violations that could have affected the election results were identified,” Petrishenko said.

Following its assessment, the CIS mission concluded that the Qurultay elections were conducted in full compliance with Kazakhstan's legislation.

“The elections of deputies to the Qurultay of the Republic of Kazakhstan on August 23, 2026, were conducted at a high organizational level and were fair, competitive, and open, ensuring citizens' right to freely express their will,” the mission said in its statement.

Petrishenko also congratulated Kazakhstan on the completion of the electoral process and wished the elected deputies success, expressing hope that the newly formed Qurultay would become a “real bridge between the authorities and society.”

Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that the Central Election Commission announced preliminary Qurultay election results.