Kazakhstan’s political elite swept away in major reshuffle

In a single day, several high-ranking officials in Kazakhstan’s presidential administration (president’s executive office) and cabinet lost their posts, marking a significant shift.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev dismissed three aides: Tamara Duissenova; Kanat Sharlapaev, who advised on economic issues; and Yerzhan Kazykhan, who oversaw international issues and was appointed permanent representative to the U.N. office in Geneva.

Tokayev also removed advisers Kunsulu Zakariya, focused on science; Zulfiya Suleimenova, responsible for international environmental cooperation; and Yernar Baspayev.

New foreign minister

Murat Nurtleu was dismissed as deputy prime minister and foreign minister. He was reassigned as Tokayev’s aide for international investment and trade cooperation. Yerzhan Kosherbayev was removed as deputy prime minister and appointed foreign minister.

Kosherbayev, who previously oversaw the social sector as deputy prime minister, has been appointed foreign minister without retaining the rank of deputy prime minister.

Redistribution of responsibilities

Political analyst Daniyar Ashimbayev highlighted that the dual role of deputy prime minister and foreign minister was introduced in January 2021 to strengthen the Foreign Ministry’s role in attracting investment. He said the latest change suggests a redistribution of responsibilities within the government.

Experts say the restructuring is intended to streamline the government’s work with investors and to carry out priorities set by the president.

Furthermore, after returning from the U.S., Tokayev dismissed Yerzhan Ashikbayev as Kazakhstan’s ambassador in Washington.

Reasons for shake-up

The administration has not provided an explanation for the sweeping reshuffle. Notably, on Sept. 19, 2025, Yerbolat Dossayev, a veteran official and former mayor of Almaty, was appointed deputy head of the presidential administration.