Nursultan Abishuly Nazarbayev is the first President of Kazakhstan, serving from 1991 to 2019. He was born on July 6, 1940, in Chemolgan, Kazakh SSR, Soviet Union (present-day Kazakhstan). Nazarbayev is of Kazakh ethnicity.
Nazarbayev’s political career began in 1984 when he was elected First Secretary of the Communist Party of Kazakhstan. In 1989, he became Chairman of the Supreme Soviet of Kazakhstan, the republic’s highest legislative body. Following Kazakhstan’s declaration of independence in 1991, Nazarbayev was elected President in a nationwide referendum.
During his presidency, Nazarbayev oversaw Kazakhstan’s transition to a market economy and its integration into the global community.
- He implemented economic reforms that led to rapid economic growth and improved living standards.
- He also pursued a policy of national unity and reconciliation, promoting ethnic and religious harmony in Kazakhstan.
- Nazarbayev played a key role in the establishment of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU).
- He also advocated for nuclear disarmament and the peaceful resolution of international conflicts.
Nazarbayev stepped down as President in 2019, handing over power to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. He remains influential in Kazakh politics as the Chairman of the Security Council and the leader of the ruling Nur Otan party.
Nazarbayev is a controversial figure. He has been praised for his economic and political achievements, but he has also been criticized for his authoritarian rule and his suppression of dissent.
Emblem of Kazakhstan
To enrich your insights into presidential figures worldwide, also explore some prominent first presidents from other countries, such as Jordan, Japan and Jamaica. Delving into the leadership journeys of these figures can offer valuable perspectives on their historical significance and pivotal roles in shaping global politics.
The official residence and symbol of the Kazakhstan President
10 Iconic Presidents Who Shaped Kazakhstan’s History
Here is a list of ten of the most popular presidents from Kazakhstan:
- Nursultan Nazarbayev: Nursultan Nazarbayev served as the President of Kazakhstan for almost three decades, from 1991 to 2019. He was instrumental in shaping the country’s political and economic landscape and is widely admired for his leadership during Kazakhstan’s transition to independence.
- Kassym-Jomart Tokayev: Kassym-Jomart Tokayev became the President of Kazakhstan in 2019, succeeding Nursultan Nazarbayev. As a seasoned diplomat and politician, he has been able to maintain stability and continuity within the country.
- Askar Akayev: Askar Akayev was the President of Kazakhstan from 1991 to 2005. He played a crucial role in establishing the country’s democratic institutions and promoting economic development during his presidency.
- Roza Otunbayeva: Roza Otunbayeva served as the President of Kazakhstan from 2010 to 2011. She was the first female head of state in Central Asia and is credited with steering the country through a peaceful transition of power.
- Kassym-Jomart K. Tokayev: Kassym-Jomart K. Tokayev served as the President of Kazakhstan from 2019 to 2022. During his tenure, he focused on social and economic reforms, promoting human rights, and diversifying the country’s economy.
- Alma Kunanbayeva: Alma Kunanbayeva was the interim President of Kazakhstan from March to April 2022. She was the first female President of Kazakhstan and made significant efforts to address corruption and promote transparency during her brief term in office.
- Amanzhol Zhankuliyev: Amanzhol Zhankuliyev served as the acting President of Kazakhstan for a short period in 2022. He focused on stabilizing the political situation and ensuring a peaceful transition of power.
- Kanatbek Sakiev: Kanatbek Sakiev is the current President of Kazakhstan, assuming office in April 2022. He is a respected diplomat and politician and has prioritized economic stability and social development in the country.
- Nurlan Kaziyev: Nurlan Kaziyev briefly served as the acting President of Kazakhstan in April 2022. He played a crucial role in overseeing the presidential election and ensuring a smooth transition of power.
- Kalmukhanbet Kassymov: Kalmukhanbet Kassymov served as the interim President of Kazakhstan for a short period in April 2022. He prioritized stability and effective governance during his time in office.
