Tokayev Confirms Next Presidential Election in 2029, Defends Vice President Role

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has directly addressed public speculation surrounding the newly established position of Vice President and the upcoming presidential election cycle. He confirmed that the next presidential vote will be held in 2029, as stipulated by the current Constitution.

"I am aware of various discussions circulating about the position of Vice President," Tokayev stated. "Indeed, such a position exists in a number of foreign countries. Some experts suggest that competition within the government is allegedly intensifying in Kazakhstan, with various concerning trends emerging. However, there is no reason to fear that this will negatively impact society."

The President expressed confidence that creating the vice-presidential office would strengthen state institutions. "The establishment of the position of Vice President will strengthen the institutions of state power, and this will become evident in the future," he said. "As President, I have high hopes for this position, as I do for all reforms in general."

Concluding his remarks on political timelines, Tokayev provided clear clarity: "The next presidential elections will be held, as they should be, within the timeframe established by the current Constitution—in 2029." This statement directly counters suggestions that recent constitutional reforms were a preparatory step for an earlier transfer of power.

The comments were made during a briefing for media representatives following the national referendum on constitutional amendments.