Ferghana.Ru approached a prominent Kazakh expert who agreed to comment on the latest staff shuffles in the upper echelons of state power. "Abykayev was number two man in Kazakhstan. This resignation now is his "punishment" for the death of opposition leader Altynbek Sarsenbayev. Abykayev was replaced with Tokayev who is a partner of Rahat Aliyev [Nazarbayev's son-in-law, Dariga Nazarbayeva's husband]. Timur [Kulibayev - the husband of Alia, the other president's daughter] has "his own" premier now. That's how Daddy [the president] has restored the balance," the expert said on the condition of anonymity.

Chairman of the Senate of the Parliament of Kazakhstan Nurtai Abykayev was relieved of his duties on his own request earlier today. President Nursultan Nazarbayev immediately made Abykayev ambassador to Russia.

Previous ambassador Janseit Tumebayev, 48, became Cabinet member (education and science) last Wednesday.

"Abykayev volunteered for diplomatic service and I granted him his wish. He will become our ambassador in Russia," Nursultan Nazarbayev said. The Senate unanimously voted to relieve Abykayev of his duties of Senate chairman.

Nazarbayev nominated Kasymjomart Tokayev, 53, for chairmanship in the Senate. Former foreign minister, Tokayev left this post to Marat Tajin, ex-presidential aide and secretary of the Security Council.