Chief of TURKPA observer mission hails reforms undertaken by Kazakh President
Osman Mesten, Head of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States (TURKPA) Observer Mission and Chairman of the TURKPA Commission on Legal Affairs and International Relations, a deputy of Türkiye's Grand National Assembly, has praised the organization and conduct of Kazakhstan's Qurultay elections, Qazinform News Agency reports.
"Today is a historic event for the Republic of Kazakhstan. I am very glad to be here with you today. This is truly a historic period. We, the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States, have come to Kazakhstan to observe the elections," Osman Mesten told a briefing at the Center for Assistance to International Observers and Foreign Media in Astana.
As he noted, Kazakhstan has done extensive preparatory work to guarantee citizens' voting rights. In particular, 77 polling stations opened in 61 countries for Kazakhstanis abroad.
"The Republic of Kazakhstan has ensured the right to vote for all its citizens. All elections are being held in line with the constitution, constitutional law, and international standards. We see that the CEC has taken all necessary measures to this end," the mission head said.
Mesten said TURKPA representatives are working in four observer teams and have been visiting polling stations in Astana and other cities since they opened.
"During the opening, we saw that everything was very calm and in line with international standards. First, the National Anthem of the Republic of Kazakhstan was played. By that time, Commission members were already working at the stations and were ensuring all necessary conditions, without putting any pressure on citizens as they filled out their ballots. And our delegates, our delegation, have confirmed this," Osman Mesten said.
The head of the mission also said TURKPA representatives had the opportunity to meet with leaders of all political parties in Kazakhstan.
He noted that Kazakhstan has been undertaking significant political and legal reforms in recent years.
"We believe that Kazakhstan, especially recently under the leadership of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, has been carrying out very serious reforms, both political and legal – reforms that are vital, leading to progress and putting human rights, citizens' rights, and the unity of citizens and the state at the forefront," Mesten said.
The mission head also highlighted the increased representation of women in the new parliament.
"A very serious step was taken regarding women's representation in parliament. The Qurultay has a minimum 30% quota. However, based on party lists, that figure has been exceeded, reaching 44%. I think this is very significant progress," he emphasized.
As it was reported, Kazakhstan's first-ever elections for deputies of the country's new unicameral Qurultay began on August 23. Polling stations opened across the country, with voting set to continue until 8:00 p.m.
Kazakhstanis are voting for one of seven political parties participating in the elections. Following the vote, seats in the Qurultay will be distributed among the parties that surpass the legally established threshold.
