Kazakhstan parliamentary vote to cement president's power

Kazakhstan will hold a parliamentary election on Sunday, where 12.3 million eligible voters will decide the country's unicameral Kurultai. The new body, which replaced the Senate in March, is expected to grant parliament more influence in decision-making, but critics believe it will only strengthen President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's authority.

The 73-year-old president succeeded authoritarian Nursultan Nazarbayev in 2019. The ruling Adilet party is predicted to secure an overwhelming majority, along with several smaller parties loyal to Tokayev. Seven state-approved parties are allowed to field candidates, while opposition parties remain banned. The election occurs amidst high inflation and rising taxes, raising concerns about a potential repeat of January 2022's widespread unrest.

Tokayev, a former Soviet official, has implemented reforms and justified his changes as necessary for development. He has maintained a balance between Russia and the West, but plans to remain in power beyond his current term, as the constitutional reform allows him to run again in 2029.