It is without a doubt that the issue of who will become Nazarbaev’s successor in charge of Kazakhstani government, will be decided as part of a inner-elite struggle. As of recently this struggle, if not quieted down than at least moved into media shadows, since it has become for everyone that angering fellow citizens during crisis is a bad idea.
However, the inter-clan (inter-group) struggle continues in Kazakhstan and moreover, becomes more tense and severe, because country’s feeding trough has significantly shrunk, plus stakes have risen – the losers now not only lose government positons, shadow spheres of influence in power and business, but often their freedom.
Due to this, media campaign against Almaty akim Bauyrjan Baibek, that unfolded in the country with the active participation of weekly “Karavan”, stands out. As an example, we will name a recent article in that media outlet, called “The wizard of Oz: what mess akim Baibek caused in Almaty”.
The very fact of such intimidation method, by a once popular and quiet critical publishing, that later turned into a tabloid, is evidence that a “special order” took place. And the “order” was made by an elite group that isn’t afraid that Almaty akim will involve all of his administrative powers or somehow otherwise “avenge” his wrong-doers.
Based on unofficial information, Dariga Nazarbaeva, deputy of parliament and president’s eldest daughter stands behind the intimidation of Bauyirjan Baibek.
The reasons why Dariga Nursultanovna, decided to “whip” Almaty akim aren’t fully known, however, it isn’t hard to count them, knowing her political and business interests.
Dariga Nazarbaeva, could’ve started an attack on Baibek in order to achieve his resignation from her father, which would include further move into akimiat of either herself or older son Nurali Aliev, who already has an experience working as the deputy head of Astana’s akim. Of course, business motives shouldn’t be excluded: for example with regards to construction company “BI Group” tied to D. Nazarbaeva.
It is worth mentioning that in this case, the eldest daughter plays out a win-win game: it is unlikely that Baibek will have the audacity to answer back to his offender, since despite his closeness to Nazarbaev and highness of his current status, he is just an ally, and not a blood relative of the leader of the nation.
Baibek’s situation is also exacerbated by the fact that Dariga Nazarbaeva has serious allies in Akorda. One such believed ally is the head of national security of KR Karim Masimova. Based on unofficial information, a trusted intermediary between him and president’s elder daughter is latter’s friend and former’s parent-in-law Kairat Boranbaev.
Also, if this union will pass the test of time, it may turn out to be the ley in making a decision of who will become elbasy’s successor on the main political position of the country.
