SHYMKENT, Kazakhstan — Preparations are underway in Shymkent for the Kurultai elections scheduled for August 23, 2026, with election officials placing a strong emphasis on ensuring accessible voting for people with disabilities.
Chairman of the Shymkent Territorial Election Commission, Kairbek Kunanbayev, said electoral precincts have been finalized and organizational preparations are progressing according to schedule.
According to the commission, ensuring equal voting rights for every citizen remains a key priority. Special measures are being introduced to make polling stations fully accessible for voters with disabilities.
More than 23,000 adults with disabilities currently live in Shymkent, including approximately 3,600 people who are blind or visually impaired, deaf or hard of hearing, or use wheelchairs.
All polling stations will be equipped with ramps, tactile guiding paths, accessible voting booths, and information areas featuring microphones and voting templates designed for visually impaired voters.
In addition, 35 accessible taxi vehicles will be available to transport voters with disabilities on election day, while 65 sign language interpreters will assist voters with hearing impairments.
Election officials said these measures are intended to ensure that every eligible voter can participate in the electoral process without barriers. They also noted that investments in accessible infrastructure should continue to benefit residents beyond election day, supporting greater inclusion in everyday life.