ELECTIONS TO THE KURULTAI: NEW POLLING STATIONS 

ARE BEING OPENED AT INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISES

Members of the Central Election Commission of the Republic of Kazakhstan continue to inspect the regions before the election of deputies of the Kurultai.

On August 13-14, Assel Zhanabilova, a member of the Commission, visited the Akmola region on an inspection visit. During the trip, a coordination meeting was held with the heads of government agencies and law enforcement agencies. Their reports on the preparations for the elections to the Kurultai were heard, and key tasks for the upcoming period were outlined. The member of the Central Election Commission stressed the importance of coordinated work of all departments in organizing the elections. She also noted the importance of providing the sites with a stable Internet connection and preparing the necessary infrastructure. The CEC member paid special attention to the issues of informing voters, the work of call centers, and obtaining absentee voting certificates.

"Voters who will be away from their place of permanent registration on election day can obtain an absentee voting certificate from the precinct election commission at their place of permanent registration. Applications for an absentee voting certificate can already be submitted and will be accepted until 6:00 p.m. on  August 22. Given the summer vacation period, it is important to continue informing citizens about the possibility of obtaining absentee voting certificate. This will enable voters to cast their ballots even if they are in another locality on election day," - Assel Zhanabilova emphasized.

It should be noted that for the convenience of voters, the Constitutional Law "On Elections in the Republic of Kazakhstan" was amended to allow the opening of polling stations in organizations with continuously operating production. Three such new polling stations have been opened in Akmola region, which cover about 1,000 employees. During her visit to these sites, Assel Zhanabilova noted that their functioning is important for creating favourable conditions for workers to exercise their constitutional rights.

During the trip, the CEC member paid great attention to ensuring the inclusiveness of the voting process and creating conditions for citizens with disabilities. Another important area is the improvement of professional training. Asel Zhanabilova took part in a seminar for 150 members of territorial and precinct commissions, getting acquainted with the implementation of the republican cascade training model in practice.

During the visit, it was noted that preparations for the first elections of deputies of the Kurultai are reaching the finish line. The main focus is on the uniform application of legislation. Members of election commissions work out all procedures in detail: informing citizens, voting, protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, communicating with observers and the media.

It should be noted that in Akmola region, the election of deputies of the Kurultai is provided by 759 election commissions, which include 4,520 people.