
Is Nursultan Nazarbayev A-List?
No — Nursultan Nazarbayev is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 2010
Granted Elbasy Title
Lost A-list status in 2022
Dropped to B tier — Loss of Influence
Ranking Timeline
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.
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.
Attracts Foreign Investment
Nazarbayev implements economic reforms and attracts foreign investment. Kazakhstan's oil wealth significantly increases his personal wealth.
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.
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.
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