Yerlan Koshanov has been elected chairman of the Qazaqstan Halq Keñesi following a secret ballot at the first session of the new consultative body. His candidacy was proposed by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
HOW MANY VOTES KOSHANOV RECEIVED
121 people took part in the vote. Yerlan Koshanov's candidacy was supported by 120 members of the Council, with one participant abstaining.
Before the vote, Koshanov's candidacy was presented by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The President noted that the position of chairman of the Qazaqstan Halq Keñesi has constitutional status. According to the Head of State, the chairman must ensure effective dialogue between citizens and the authorities.
WHAT TASKS THE PRESIDENT OUTLINED
Speaking at the first session, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stated that the new consultative body includes state and public figures, entrepreneurs and activists. The President described the Council members as specialists and citizens enjoying public trust.
The Head of State emphasised the particular responsibility of the members of the Qazaqstan Halq Keñesi and linked their work to strengthening statehood, unity and harmony in society.
Proposing Yerlan Koshanov's candidacy, the President noted his many years of experience in public service.
HOW THE ELECTION PROCEDURE WAS CONDUCTED
The chairman of the Qazaqstan Halq Keñesi is elected by secret ballot for a term of four years. One person may hold this position for no more than two terms.
The President or at least one third of the Council members has the right to nominate a candidate for the post of chairman.
WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT KOSHANOV
Yerlan Koshanov was born on 14 August 1962 in the village of Aksu-Ayuly, Shet district, Zhezkazgan region, which is now part of Karaganda region.
He was educated in engineering and economics. He began his career in industry, after which he moved to work in state and administrative structures.
In 1996–1999, Koshanov was a senator and sat on the committee for international affairs, defence and security. In subsequent years he worked in the Government, holding the positions of Vice-Minister of Transport and Communications and chairman of the civil aviation committee.
In 2012–2017 he headed the Prime Minister's office, and in 2017–2019 he was akim of Karaganda region.
From 2019 to 2022, Koshanov headed the Presidential Administration. From 2022 to 1 July 2026, he held the post of chairman of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THE NEW CONSULTATIVE BODY
On 22 September, the President approved the composition of the Qazaqstan Halq Keñesi. The new body includes 126 people — among them former MPs, ex-ministers, heads of large companies, athletes, journalists and public figures.