SEOUL, January 26 (AJP) - President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced a major overhaul of the national government on January 20, proposing the creation of a vice presidency and a transition to a single-chamber legislature.
Speaking at the National Kurultai in Kyzylorda, the president outlined a series of constitutional amendments intended to modernize the state system. The proposal includes the establishment of a Vice President who would represent South Korea's neighbor on the international stage and handle coordination with the parliament. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stated that while the reform introduces new leadership roles, the country will remain a presidential republic.
The plan calls for the current two-house system to be replaced by a unicameral parliament known as the Kurultai. Under this model, the legislature would consist of 145 deputies elected for five-year terms through a proportional representation system. The reform would also grant the parliament the authority to approve judges for the Supreme Court and members of the Central Election Commission.
Regarding political stability, the president proposed strict rules for succession. If a president leaves office early, a national election must be held within two months to ensure the next head of state is chosen through a public vote.
On foreign policy, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev advocated for a pragmatic approach focused on national interests. He noted that diplomacy should serve as a tool for compromise rather than confrontation. He also announced the creation of the Khalyk Kenesi, or People's Council, an advisory body that will have the right to suggest new laws.
Economic priorities mentioned in the address included the expansion of artificial intelligence and the development of high-capacity data centers. The president also discussed Kazakhstan's goal of becoming a primary transport hub for the Middle Corridor, which links trade routes between the East and the West.
According to a report from the Astana Times on January 24, 2026, a Constitutional Commission has already been formed to draft these amendments for a planned national referendum.
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