Kazakhstan's election commission reported a voter turnout of 73.12% in the recent referendum, where the populace voted on a new constitution touted by the government as a move towards greater democracy. However, critics have expressed concerns that the reform will primarily serve to strengthen the authority of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev rather than genuinely democratize the political landscape.

The new constitution is said to signify a shift from a 'super-presidential system,' characterized by extensive concentration of power in the presidency, to a presidential system with a 'strong parliament.' Nonetheless, proposed changes suggest a contradictory direction, with plans to replace the bicameral parliament with a unicameral legislature and give the president sole authority in appointing heads of the Central Bank, intelligence services, and the Constitutional Court. This raises concerns that if the parliament disapproves of any appointments, Tokayev could dissolve the legislature and enact laws unilaterally.

The implications of this constitutional overhaul are significant, as it touches on freedom of speech and the overall democratic processes in Kazakhstan. While the leadership claims the new constitution will empower democratic institutions, the centralization of power under the executive branch calls into question the government's commitment to true democratic reforms and civil liberties in the country.