President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has further consolidated power since the unrest of early 2022, completing the removal of Nazarbayev’s influence and strengthening his own inner circle. The 2022 constitutional reform paved the way for a seven-year term and modest political diversification, yet real competition remains absent. Despite six parties entering parliament in 2023, the ruling Amanat party continues to dominate an increasingly centralized political system.
Economic performance between 2023 and 2025 remains modest, with growth below the levels of the previous decade. Persistent inflation, a weak currency and high living costs continue to strain households. Budget deficits and social discontent reveal deep structural imbalances that the government has struggled to address.
Despite Tokayev’s declared reform agenda, governance remains characterized by limited transparency, pervasive corruption and state interference in key sectors. International partners continue to call for stronger reforms to enhance competition, innovation and accountability.
