Vladimir Chizhov: Constitutional Reform is a New Step in Strengthening Kazakhstan

Vladimir Chizhov, first deputy Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on Defence and Security, noted that the constitutional reform is a new step in strengthening Kazakhstan. He is monitoring the referendum in the Akmola region as part of the CSTO Parliamentary Assembly observer mission.

"We have not registered any violations because, first of all, the referendum was organized very professionally and thoroughly, and second of all, it's based on the voters' well-informed opinions. Prior to the referendum, an outreach campaign was carried out, personally overseen by the President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev until the last day. Only a few days ago, the President made a comprehensive policy speech. And the constitutional reform itself is a new step in strengthening the state under the auspices of a threefold goal: a strong President, a strong Parliament, and an accountable government," Vladimir Chizhov shared.

According to the CEC of Kazakhstan, as of 14:00, voter turnout nationwide amounted to 51.93%. Under Article 31, paragraph 2 of the Constitutional Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan "On the Republican Referendum," the referendum is considered valid if more than half of the citizens eligible to participate in it have cast their votes.