Kazakhstan's Newly Formed Kurultai Elects Aibek Dadebay as First Speaker During Inaugural Session

## Inaugural Session of the Kurultai Convenes in Astana

Kazakhstan's newly established unicameral parliament, the Kurultai, held its inaugural legislative session on August 28, 2026. During the session, Aibek Dadebay was elected as the first Speaker and Chairman of the Kurultai. According to legislative records from the parliamentary assembly, Dadebay secured the position by secret ballot with the support of 144 deputies.

The Kurultai was created in June 2026, following constitutional reforms that replaced the country's previous bicameral parliamentary system. The establishment of the unicameral body preceded national legislative elections held on August 23, 2026.

## Adilet Party Secures Majority in Legislative Elections

Aibek Dadebay serves as the leader of the Adilet party, which contested the August 23 elections and secured a decisive mandate. According to election commission results, the Adilet party won 71.17 percent of the popular vote, capturing 110 out of the total 145 seats in the Kurultai.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev formally nominated Dadebay for the speakership prior to the parliamentary vote, citing his extensive administrative experience. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stated during his nomination address, “In accordance with Article 57 of the Constitution, the president proposes a candidate for the chairmanship of the Kurultai. Recognising the high responsibility, I propose Aibek Dadabay for this position.”

## Parliamentary Reforms and Governance Structure

The transition to the Kurultai represents a major structural change in Kazakhstan's legislative framework, shifting away from the former Senate and Majilis bicameral model. The exact date of the constitutional reforms that established the Kurultai in June 2026 is not specified in official state bulletins beyond the month of adoption.

With Dadebay confirmed as Speaker, the Kurultai is scheduled to review upcoming national administrative budgets and legislative packages forwarded by President Tokayev's administration during its autumn legislative calendar.