Kazakhstan parliament approves new Prime Minister

Born and raised in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, Bektenov's journey to the highest echelons of power began when he graduated with honors from the Kazakh State Law Academy in 2001, earning a prestigious law degree.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev formalized the appointment through a decree on his official website, stating, "I hereby appoint Bektenov Olzhas Abayevich as Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, relieving him of his previous post."

This significant move followed Tokayev's acceptance of the government's resignation, headed by Alikhan Smailov, with no explanation provided for this decision. The transition to Bektenov as Prime Minister represents a strategic shift in the Kazakh political landscape.

Bektenov, 43, earned his nomination from Kazakhstan's largest political party, Amanat (Covenant of Ancestors), after a distinguished career that began in 2002. His path led him through various government positions, including a pivotal role in the presidential administration of former Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev.

In 2023, Bektenov ascended to the helm of the Tokayev administration, marking a notable achievement in his public service career. As the nation watches, he takes on the responsibility of guiding Kazakhstan's future with a wealth of experience and a strong mandate from the parliament.