Kazakhstan’s pro-government party wins parliamentary election, boosting president’s grip on power

Kazakhstan's pro-government Adilet Party secured a landslide victory in the recent parliamentary elections, winning 71% of the vote. This outcome is expected to significantly strengthen President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's control over the nation. The election was the first for Kazakhstan's new single-chamber parliament, the Kurultai, established through a constitutional overhaul initiated by Tokayev. Observers noted a lack of distinct political opposition, with all participating parties supporting the president's policies. The constitutional changes also reset Tokayev's term limits, allowing him to seek re-election in 2029. The election occurred amidst economic challenges, including high inflation, and a crackdown on press freedom.

Kazakhstan's newly formed pro-government Adilet party secured over 71 percent of the vote in Sunday's parliamentary election, according to the electoral commission. This victory is expected to consolidate the power of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, whose top aides lead Adilet, a party founded earlier this year. Four other blocs, including pro-business and rural-focused parties, also entered the new 145-member parliament, the Kurultai. The election was triggered by a new constitution that streamlined parliament into a single chamber, aiming to give it more influence. The results indicate broad support for Tokayev's administration, which he has led since 2019.

Kazakhstan's parliamentary elections on Sunday saw a landslide victory for the Adilet party, led by allies of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, securing 71.8% of the vote according to exit polls. This outcome occurred shortly after Tokayev indicated he might seek re-election beyond his current term. Adilet, a newly formed party backed by business leaders and former presidential aides, merged with the previous ruling party, Amanat. The election for the new single-chamber parliament, part of a constitutional overhaul following 2022 riots, saw a 74.19% voter turnout. The reforms aim to strengthen presidential powers and establish a vice-president role.

Rumen Radev, Bulgaria's former pro-Russian president, decisively won the country's parliamentary election, according to official results released Monday. His Progressive Bulgaria party secured 44.7% of the vote, potentially allowing them to govern independently. This victory, exceeding pre-election polls, marks a significant shift in Bulgarian politics and could end a period of political instability that saw eight elections in five years. While Radev hasn't ruled out coalition possibilities, his win raises concerns about Bulgaria potentially moving closer to Moscow, despite being an EU and NATO member. The election results have been welcomed by both Russia and the European Union.