New Zealand: Hipkins to become new prime minister

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Ardern surprised many by announcing her resignation. Now her successor seems clear: Secretary of Education Hipkins is to become the new head of government. He had made a name for himself as a corona crisis manager.

The former New Zealand minister for fighting the corona pandemic is expected to become the country’s new head of government. The ruling Labor Party has nominated 44-year-old Chris Hipkins as the sole candidate to succeed outgoing Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern as party leader.

Confirmation of the party is considered a formality

Hipkins’ confirmation as party leader at a party leadership meeting is considered a formality. The Labor leader will automatically become Prime Minister. Hipkins was the only candidate put forward by the Labor Party for the post.

“The greatest privilege of my life”

In an initial reaction to his nomination, Hipkins said he considers himself “pretty decisive” and “can get things done”. The prospect of his new post makes him “energetic and enthusiastic”. Citing his origins in the Hutt Valley, a valley area near Wellington, Hipkins also said:

With a view to the general election in October, the designated head of government was also optimistic – even though his Labor party is lagging behind the Conservatives in polls given the rising cost of living, poverty and high crime rates.

Hipkins’ pandemic management a success

Hipkins had received praise for his almost two-year stint as Corona Minister. The country only fully reopened its borders in August last year.

Hipkins is currently in charge of the education and police departments in the cabinet. He has been a member of Parliament in Wellington for a total of 14 years.

Ardern surprisingly resigned

After more than five years at the head of the government, Ardern announced her resignation on Thursday by February 7 at the latest. The 42-year-old gave the reason that she lacked the strength for more years in office.