Turnout in Kazakhstan’s parliamentary elections stood at 54.19 percent, translating to roughly 6.5 million people out of a population of about 12 million, according to reports from Tengrinews Portal.
Media outlets noted that the turnout marked the lowest level in a decade. In the 2021 election, about 63.3 percent of eligible voters cast ballots, followed by 77 percent in 2016 and 75 percent in 2012, illustrating a gradual slide in participation over the years.
Regional differences were pronounced. The highest turnout appeared in the Kyzylorda region, where about 67.2 percent of residents voted. In contrast, Alma-Ata reported the lowest regional participation, with only 25.8 percent of eligible voters casting ballots.
There were conflicting reports on the current election: Shavkhat Utemisov, a former member of the Central Election Commission, indicated turnout by 15:00 Moscow time was 53.11 percent. By comparison, turnout in January 2021 was recorded at 58.2 percent. These figures reflect ongoing dynamics as polls close and final tallies are compiled.
Earlier updates from Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that polling centers had opened in five Russian cities to accommodate voters seeking to participate in the early elections for the country’s lower house and local representative bodies.
The polling sites were located in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Astrakhan, and Omsk, enabling Kazakh citizens abroad to vote within a designated framework. This cross-border voting arrangement underscores the persistent reach of Kazakh electoral processes and the participation of expatriate communities, as reported in ongoing coverage from multiple outlets .
Overall, the turnout figures reflect a mix of regional engagement, demographic shifts, and logistical considerations that influence how citizens participate in parliamentary elections. Analysts note that turnout can impact perceptions of legitimacy and mandate, while organizers emphasize accessibility and transparency as essential priorities in the electoral process.
As the vote tallies continue to be finalized, observers will be watching for how turnout compares across regions and how the distribution of votes aligns with regional economic conditions and urban-rural divides. The evolving picture will shape discussions about electoral participation in Kazakhstan and may influence policy debates in the years ahead .