Kazakhstan: Increased security and road closures are likely ahead of the Nov. 20 presidential election

Event

Kazakhstan will hold snap presidential elections, Nov. 20. Incumbent President Kassum-Jomart Tokayev will face five challengers. Heightened security measures are likely in urban centers, and at polling stations; authorities may close roads. Opposition gatherings are possible ahead of and on voting day. Internet outages are possible should opposition protests materialize.

Authorities will likely monitor any potential gatherings. Police may use force to disperse protests. Confrontations between supporters of rival political parties may also occur, possibly resulting in clashes. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely Nov. 20.

Context

Elections were initially scheduled for December 2024. However, Tokayev announced in September that snap polls would be held in November. In March 2022, Tokayev introduced constitutional amendments, which decreased the president's power in favor of the Parliament. Further amendments were introduced in September, which increased the presidential term limit from five years to a non-renewable seven. The amendments were criticized as an attempt by Tokayev to consolidate power following the January mass protests in which more than 220 people were killed and around 10,000 arrested.

Advice

Avoid all campaign rallies, party offices, polling stations, and counting centers, as a precaution. Seek updated information from local sources for updates on events, as organizers may not announce details in advance. Use alternative routes to avoid election-related events; allow additional time to reach destinations. Confirm business appointments through at least Nov. 20.