Elections are a key element of democracy, giving citizens the right to influence the management of their regions. The introduction of direct elections for district and city akims is an important step toward greater public control and government accountability.
In many countries, local elections allow citizens to play an active role in governing their communities, and elected leaders take personal responsibility for their performance. Until recently, district and city akims in Kazakhstan were appointed by the regional akim with approval from the local maslikhat (council). This limited citizens’ influence over local authorities.
The 2021 introduction of direct elections for rural and village akims was the first step toward greater democratic participation. Now, the process is expanding to include district akims as well.
How Will the System Change?
In 2023 Kazakhstan launched pilot elections for district and city akims. By 2025 this system will be implemented nationwide.
Legal Basis:
The changes are outlined in the Constitutional Law of Kazakhstan and the Law on Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan. These documents were signed by the President on November 5, 2022.
How Will the Elections Work?
1️⃣ Defining Election Districts. The regional maslikhat will determine which districts and cities will hold elections.
2️⃣ Candidate Nomination:
• Political parties can nominate candidates.
• Independent candidates must collect at least 1% of voter signatures.
• If no candidates come forward, the regional akim may propose a nominee.
3️⃣ Financial Requirements. Candidates must pay an election deposit equal to five times the minimum wage. The deposit is refunded if the candidate wins or secures at least 5% of the vote.
4️⃣ Campaign Period. The entire process lasts 60 days, including campaigning, voting, and announcing results.
5️⃣ Term Limits. An akim is elected for four years and cannot serve more than two consecutive terms.
Expected Outcomes
✅ Increased public trust in local government.
✅ Faster response to citizens’ concerns.
✅ Stronger political competition and better governance.
✅ A more engaged society, aligning with the government’s vision of a “Listening State.”
However, implementing this reform comes with challenges. It is crucial to ensure fair competition, prevent misuse of administrative resources, and minimize corruption risks. Kazakhstan needs to build experience in conducting such elections, and society must actively participate in the process.
📌 In upcoming articles, we will analyze how these elections are conducted across different regions of Kazakhstan.
Diana Saduaqasova, independent expert, specifically for the portal www.economykz.org
