Kazakstan held national elections on September 19, prompting comments from a number of outside observers, and all the local opposition, that the vote was a step backwards for democracy.
In Kazakhstan, however, the internet and other information sources act in combination with independent parties, muddy elections but elections nevertheless, and what should be a parliamentary opposition.
Kazakhstan is an important potential ally to the U.S., Russia, and its neighbors in the war on terror.
The Constitution of Kazakhstan concentrates power in the presidency, permitting the president to control the legislature and judiciary, as well as regional and local governments.
Parliamentary elections in September were in some respects an improvement over the previous elections; however, they continued to fall short of international standards.
Prior to the elections, Kazakhstan adopted and passed an elections law that, while not fully meeting international standards, was an improvement over existing legislation.
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