Kazakhstan's president has unexpectedly resigned after nearly 30 years in power.
He's on his way out,.. but he'll still retain considerable sway over the Central Asian nations's political system.
Ro Aram reports.
Nursultan Nazarbayev did not provide any specific reason for the abrupt decision, only saying it was a difficult one to make.

"Dear Kazakhs, co-citizens and supporters, I'm addressing you today as I've always done in the most important moments in the history of our state, which we are building together. But my address today is special: I made an uneasy decision to step down as president of the Republic of Kazakhstan."

The 78-year-old is the only man to lead Kazakhstan since the country emerged from the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s.
Despite his resignation, he will retain much of his power and influence as head of the governing party and by holding key posts in Kazakhstan's military.
He also keeps the officials title of "The Leader of the Nation".
Therefore, although his resignation comes as surprise, it doesn't necessarily mean a major policy shift as he would still hold considerable sway over the country's politics.
Although he has been widely popular for maintaining stability and ethnic peace in Kazakhstan, he has faced criticism for suppressing dissent and sidelining the opposition.
Critics have also accused him of corruption and widespread human rights abuses.
The speaker of the upper house of parliament will take over as Kazakhstan's acting president for the remainder of Nazarbayev's term which ends in April next year.
A presidential election is scheduled for next year, but Nazarbayev will likely handpick his successor and make sure that person gets elected.
Ro Aram, Arirang News.