Kazakhstan holds referendum on constitutional reforms

Astana: Kazakhstan conducted a nationwide referendum on Sunday to decide on proposed amendments to its constitution. The vote is seen as a significant step in President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's efforts to reshape the country's political system.

According to details reported, the referendum offered citizens the opportunity to approve or reject a package of reforms aimed at decentralising power and reducing the influence of former president Nursultan Nazarbayev. Nazarbayev, who led Kazakhstan for nearly three decades, stepped down in 2019 but retained considerable authority until recent political changes.

The proposed constitutional changes include measures to strengthen parliament, limit presidential powers, and prohibit close relatives of the president from holding senior government positions. The reforms also seek to remove references to Nazarbayev as the 'Leader of the Nation' from the constitution.

President Tokayev has stated that the reforms are intended to create a 'Second Republic' and move the country towards a more democratic system. The referendum comes after unrest earlier this year, which prompted Tokayev to promise political and economic changes.

Polling stations opened across the country, with citizens casting their votes on whether to accept or reject the proposed amendments. The outcome of the referendum is expected to shape Kazakhstan's political landscape in the coming years.