At the general election held in 1978 and each four (4) years thereafter, there shall be elected a treasurer for the state of Kansas, whose term of office shall be four (4) years beginning on the second Monday in January next succeeding such treasurer's election. In case of a vacancy in such office, the governor shall appoint some suitable person to serve for the unexpired term and until a successor is elected and qualified.
K.S.A. 25-101b