Ms. Ardern, who fought back tears as she announced her resignation, enjoyed strong approval ratings throughout the majority of her two-term tenure, but in 2023 she faced a difficult election campaign.
Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern is quitting.
The 7th of February will mark her last day in office, and a general election has been scheduled for 14 October.
During an emotional news conference, the 42-year-old, who took over as New Zealand’s prime leader in 2017, fought back tears.
“I understand what is required for this profession, and I am no longer able to do it justice. It’s that easy! “She stated,
When a white supremacist shooter attacked two mosques in Christchurch, murdering 51 people. Ms. Ardern faced one of the darkest days in New Zealand’s history.
In the aftermath, she was universally commended for the way she welcomed the survivors and New Zealand’s Muslim population.
During the coronavirus epidemic, the prime minister also implemented some of the strictest measures in the world, resulting in one of the lowest death tolls.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will resign
As new varieties arose and vaccines were available, her zero-tolerance policy was abandoned. And some detractors within the country felt that her rules were excessively stringent.
Ms. Ardern declared a month ago that a royal commission will investigate whether the government made the correct choices in addressing COVID-19.
Polls indicate that she is still New Zealand’s favorite prime minister. But support for her party has dropped significantly since the 2020 election.
Ms. Ardern stated that she continues to have faith that New Zealand Labour will win the upcoming election.
She stated, about her choice to resign: “The so-called “true reason” for this decision will undoubtedly be the subject of considerable post-decision debate.
“I can confirm that what I’m presenting to you today is it. The only interesting viewpoint you will find is that, after six years of significant obstacles, I am human.”
She concluded by stating: “Regarding my tenure in this position, I wish to leave New Zealanders with the conviction that one can be both kind and strong, empathetic and resolute, hopeful and focused.
“You can be your kind of leader – one who knows when to leave.”
Until the election in October, it is uncertain who would succeed the current prime minister. As deputy prime minister Grant Robertson announced he will not participate in any leadership fight.
