Nazarbayev's powers boosted

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev must secure approval from his predecessor Nursultan Nazarbayev before appointing most ministers, according to a presidential decree published today.

The move further boosted the sweeping powers Nazarbayev has retained after resigning in March. The former president holds the title of Yelbasy, or National Leader, and heads the security council and the ruling party.

According to the decree, Nazarbayev - as chair of the security council - will confirm all but three ministers before Tokayev can appoint them, the exceptions being ministers of defence, interior and foreign affairs, although those are also to be discussed with the security council, Reuters reported.

The same procedure will apply to provincial governors and some other senior officials.