Tokayev names adviser Karin as vice president, first in succession

Kazakhstan’s president Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has appointed longtime adviser Erlan Karin as vice president under the new constitution, making him first in line to succeed the president. Tokayev praised Karin as an experienced public administrator with deep knowledge of state governance and a strong patriot, noting his long service within the system since 2019. The appointment, announced by media and corroborated by official outlets, follows parliament’s swift approval and aligns with Karin’s background in counter-terrorism and strategic state affairs. The move occurs as Tokayev is eligible to seek another seven-year term under the new constitutional framework, with his current term extending to 2029. Karin previously held roles including secretary of state and state counselor, and has been a senior adviser and aide within the presidential administration since 2019. In related personnel decisions, Tokayev is also reported to have proposed reappointing Olzhas Bektenov as prime minister, reflecting a broader reshaping of leadership under the new constitution.