ASTANA – Erlan Karin was elected vice president of Kazakhstan on Aug. 31, while the Kurultai also backed Olzhas Bektenov to remain as prime minister, filling two of the country’s most senior posts as the new unicameral parliament began its work. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev nominated both candidates during a meeting with the leaders of political party factions in Kurultai on Aug.
31. Speaking at the meeting, President Tokayev described Karin as an experienced public servant with extensive knowledge of state governance, reported Akorda. “He has worked in the system of public administration for many years. One can say that he is a person of broad outlook, with rich experience and a true patriot,” Tokayev said.
The President also highlighted Karin’s understanding of Kazakhstan’s strategic priorities and long-term development agenda. “Therefore, I consider Erlan Karin worthy of this position. I ask the Kurultai to support this candidacy,” Tokayev said. Subsequently, 141 members of Kurultai out of 145 voted in favour of Karin’s candidacy.
Under the Constitution, the vice president may not serve as a lawmaker or belong to a political party, and would assume presidential powers if the head of state leaves office before the end of the presidential term. Karin graduated from Zhubanov University in Aktobe in 1996 with a degree in history and geography.
He began his career in academia as a university lecturer before moving into political analysis, research and public service. He later held several senior positions in public administration, including director of the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies, aide to the President, state secretary and state counselor.
On June 30, he was appointed first deputy head of the Presidential Administration. During the same meeting, Tokayev nominated Olzhas Bektenov to remain as prime minister. Under the Constitution, the President must consult with the leaders of political party factions represented in the Kurultai before submitting a nominee.
The Kurultai backed Bektenov’s nomination by 137 votes. Bektenov has served as the country’s prime minister since 2024. The consultations were attended by the leaders of the factions of the Adilet party, Auyl People’s Democratic Patriotic Party, Respublica party, Aq Jol Democratic Party and the National Social Democratic Party.