When will the Vice President appear and what is the role?

The Vice President's office is established by the new Constitution. Appointed by the President, with a minimum age of 60. The main role is to ensure continuity of power if the President's term ends.

After the Referendum 1 min read 📄
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Why the Vice President Was Introduced

Under the 1995 Constitution, if the President's term ended early, duties passed to the Senate Chair, then the Mazhilis Chair, then the Prime Minister. The new Constitution introduces an intermediate link – the Vice President, who assumes powers first.

New Succession Order

  1. Vice President – first in line
  2. Chair of the Kurultai – if VP is unable
  3. Prime Minister – last resort

Requirements

  • Minimum age of 60
  • Citizen of Kazakhstan
  • Appointed by the President (not elected)

When the Appointment Happens

  • The norm is effective from the moment the Constitution enters into force
  • Specific appointment – at the President's discretion
  • May require adapting the law on the President

Fact

The Vice President institution existed in Kazakhstan in 1991–1995. The first and only VP was Erik Asanbayev.

Related questions

What changed after the new Constitution was adopted?

On 15 March 2026, citizens of Kazakhstan approved the new Constitution in a referendum. The document takes effect upon official publication of results. A transition period begins – adapting laws and launching new institutions.

When do the new constitutional laws take effect?

The Constitution itself takes effect immediately after results are published. But launching the Kurultai, the Vice President's office, and other innovations requires constitutional laws – their adoption is scheduled for 2026–2027.

How will the Kurultai be formed?

The Kurultai is a unicameral parliament of 145 deputies in a new format. It replaces the bicameral system (Mazhilis + Senate). The formation procedure will be defined by a separate constitutional law.

How will digital rights work in practice?

The new Constitution for the first time enshrines personal data protection and the right to submit electronic appeals to state bodies. Implementation will require subordinate legislation – expected in 2026–2027.