election FAQ

Elections in the Kyrgyz Republic: 2016 National Referendum and Local Elections

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On December 11, Kyrgyz citizens will be voting in both local Kenesh (council) elections and on a national referendum. The local elections will be taking place as a result of President Almazbek Atambayev’s decree signed on October 10, which cited the fact that the terms of Kyrgyzstan’s local council deputies have expired. The national referendum will be held on the same day and aims to introduce amendments to the existing constitution.

The result of this referendum will determine whether changes will be made to the Kyrgyz constitution, which was adopted in a 2010 national plebiscite. A total of 36 amendments will be introduced in the preamble and 24 chapters of the constitution.

To help you understand this multifaceted electoral process, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) provides Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Elections in the Kyrgyz Republic: 2016 National Referendum and Local Kenesh Elections. IFES FAQs include:

  • What is at stake in the local elections and referendum?
  • How will the local elections and referendum be managed?
  • Who will observe during Election Day?
  • What is the process for electoral dispute adjudication?