CelebList
Nursultan Nazarbayev

Is Nursultan Nazarbayev A-List?

NoB

NoNursultan Nazarbayev is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.

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Reached A-list in 2010

Granted Elbasy Title

Lost A-list status in 2022

Dropped to B tier — Loss of Influence

Ranking Timeline

1989C$1M

First Secretary of Kazakhstan

Nazarbayev becomes the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Kazakhstan. This marks his rise to power within the Soviet system.

1991B$5M+$4M

President of Kazakhstan

Nazarbayev becomes the first President of Kazakhstan after its independence. He solidifies his control over the country's political and economic systems.

2000B$100M+$95M

Attracts Foreign Investment

Nazarbayev implements economic reforms and attracts foreign investment. Kazakhstan's oil wealth significantly increases his personal wealth.

2010A$500M+$400M

Granted Elbasy Title

Nazarbayev is granted the title of Elbasy (Leader of the Nation). This gives him special privileges and immunity from prosecution even after his presidency.

2019A$1B+$500M

Resignation as President

Nazarbayev unexpectedly resigns as President after nearly 30 years in power. He remains a significant figure in Kazakh politics through his role in the Security Council.

2022B$1B

Loss of Influence

Following protests, Nazarbayev is removed from his position as Chairman of the Security Council. His political influence decreases significantly. The 2022 Kazakhstan unrest exposed how quickly his influence was fading.

Last updated: February 23, 2026