Kazakhstan’s government resigns as Tokayev signals cabinet reshuffle

Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed a decree formally accepting the government’s resignation following the election of a new Kurultai, the presidential administration said on Friday, August 28.

Under the decree, the Cabinet will continue carrying out its duties until a new government is approved.

“The Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan shall continue to perform its duties until the new composition of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan is approved,” the document states.

The decree takes effect immediately upon signing.

The move comes as Astana hosts the first session of the first convocation of the newly elected Kurultai on August 28.

Tokayev had previously said the government would resign after the elections, while praising its overall performance and signalling that changes to the Cabinet were expected.

“The Government as a whole is working quite diligently and efficiently and is carrying out the tasks set by the head of state. The competitive environment around the world is becoming more intense. The market presents challenges that need to be addressed and, most importantly, responded to appropriately. Therefore, of course, the Government should resign. There will be some changes to the composition of the Government,” Tokayev said.

The president said the planned personnel changes were intended to give the government’s work fresh momentum as Kazakhstan responds to growing economic pressures and an increasingly competitive global market.

By Tamilla Hasanova