Tokayev: Too early to speculate on 2029 presidential run

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev cast his vote in the nation's Kurultai parliamentary election on Sunday, later engaging with media representatives. When questioned about his potential re-election in the 2029 presidential race, following a Constitutional Court clarification affirming his right to run again, Tokayev responded that it is premature to speculate.

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It is lawful, of course, and I legally have the right to seek re-election. But as for the upcoming election or, as you put it, whether I will run or not and in what year, it is premature to speculate about that.

"It is lawful, of course, and I legally have the right to seek re-election," Tokayev acknowledged. "But as for the upcoming election or, as you put it, whether I will run or not and in what year, it is premature to speculate about that." He stressed that the country has numerous tasks ahead, particularly focusing on developing social facilities for citizens.

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As I have already said, we have a great many tasks to accomplish for our country and, in effect, need to turn all of Kazakhstan into a major construction site, primarily for social facilities for citizens.

Tokayev also expressed his readiness to utilize the National Fund for these purposes. "Why should we keep money in securities abroad when it can be used for the benefit of the people?" he asked, advocating for the fund's use for citizens' well-being. He noted the challenging global situation but highlighted Kazakhstan's success in maintaining domestic peace and achieving economic growth, confirmed by international financial institutions.

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Why should we keep money in securities abroad when it can be used for the benefit of the people? I am against sitting on this money like a dog in the manger. It should serve the people, our citizens.

The election itself marks the tenth parliamentary election since 1991, following the adoption of a new constitution in March 2026. The new legislative body, the Kurultai, will consist of 145 deputies serving five-year terms. Seven parties are competing for seats, with a "None of the Above" option also available on the ballot.

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Naturally, the global situation requires analysis and attention. You know that situation very well, it is difficult. We are, so to speak, literally walking along the edge of a cliff, and yet we have managed to maintain peaceful conditions at home, which has allowed us to develop.