Kazakhstanis support Tokayev's decision on army reform — study
Tengrinews.kz — More than 85 percent of respondents support President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's decision to reform the military, citing the Institute of Democracy research association.
During a special meeting with the leadership of the Ministry of Defense on September 27, the Head of State assessed the current situation in the army and ordered a comprehensive audit of the defense department, along with the development of a military reform plan within ten days.
To study public perception of the measures taken by the state, the Institute of Democracy conducted a public opinion poll on September 28–29.
According to the study, 85.2 percent of respondents fully or somewhat support the President's decision to conduct a comprehensive audit of the Ministry of Defense.
Survey participants expressed a similar attitude toward further military reform. In total, 85.7 percent of those polled view the Head of State's decision to reform the Armed Forces positively.
Respondents were also asked to identify the changes they consider necessary. Multiple answers could be selected.
The most significant priority identified by participants was increasing the transparency and accountability of the Ministry of Defense, at 47.4 percent.
Other highly requested measures include:
modernizing and professionalizing the commanding staff — 34.3 percent;
strengthening the fight against corruption in the defense sector — 29.4 percent;
ensuring safety and social conditions for military personnel — 25.3 percent;
upgrading weapons and military equipment — 20.7 percent;
implementing new technologies, including digital ones — 20.4 percent;
improving the level of combat training and exercises — 19.2 percent.
As noted in the study, the survey results show that society expects comprehensive changes. Along with improving the country's defense capabilities, respondents expect reforms that directly affect the day-to-day organization of military service.
The survey was conducted by the Institute of Democracy research association on September 28–29, 2026, using the Computer Assisted Web Interviewing (CAWI) method. It involved 1,012 Kazakhstanis aged 18 and older from 17 regions and three cities of republican significance — Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent.