Kazakhstan to name vice president within 7–10 days, Tokayev says

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced that the nation's first vice president will be named within the next seven to ten days. Speaking at a media briefing at the Palace of Independence in Astana, Tokayev linked the upcoming appointment to ongoing constitutional reforms and planned alterations to Kazakhstan’s political framework.

Tokayev stated that the individual chosen for the vice-presidential role would be revealed within the specified timeframe, emphasizing that it would be a "well-known figure." He refrained from disclosing potential candidates, noting, "Who will take the post of the vice president will be announced within the next week or ten days. It would be premature to announce it now. I believe it will be a well-known figure whom you all know well." The president highlighted the creation of this position as a key element of the constitutional reform process, though specific details regarding the vice president's responsibilities, powers, or administrative structure were not provided.

In addition to the vice presidency, Tokayev discussed the impending launch of the People’s Council, or Khalyk Kenesi, a new state body intended to broaden the functions previously performed by the People’s Assembly of Kazakhstan. He described it as a "new multifunctional political mechanism" that will "strengthen and expand the work previously carried out by the Assembly."

Tokayev connected these institutional changes to a broader program of political and institutional reform, which he indicated would continue through the end of 2026 and into the following year.

The president also outlined plans for infrastructure and social development projects nationwide. These initiatives are slated for regional centers, districts, and cities, encompassing new healthcare facilities and children’s rehabilitation centers. Specific projects for Astana include a new bridge, the Dombyra Palace, and a Water Research Center. Urban infrastructure improvements, such as the continuation of the Taza Qazaqstan campaign, are also on the government's agenda.

Finally, Tokayev touched upon Kazakhstan’s recent electoral campaign and the emergence of new political participants. He mentioned that the Qurultay, alongside the People’s Council and other institutional changes, would contribute to the next phase of political development.