Jacinda Ardern resigns as Prime Minister of New Zealand

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced she will step down in a shock resignation less than 10 months out from a general election.

Ardern doesn’t have the energy or inspiration to seek re-election later this year, she told reporters Thursday in Napier where her Labour Party is holding a caucus meeting. She named the election date as October 14.

#BREAKING: The election date for the 2023 general election has just been announced. pic.twitter.com/aKQ7P1hVEH

— NZ Parliament (@NZParliament) January 19, 2023

“I have given my absolute all to being Prime Minister but it has also taken a lot out of me,” she said.

“You cannot and should not do the job unless you have a full tank, plus a bit in reserve for those unplanned and unexpected challenges that inevitably come along. Having reflected over summer I know I no longer have that bit extra in the tank to do the job justice. It’s that simple.”

Ardern was expected to seek a third term at this year’s general election, although she faced an uphill battle as memories fade of her strong leadership during the early stages of the pandemic and voters focus on the soaring cost of living and a darkening economic outlook.

The central bank is forecasting as recession this year as it hikes interest rates at record pace to regain control of inflation.

She will remain a member of parliament until April to avoid a by-election.

Today, the current Prime Minister, Rt Hon Jacinda Ardern announced her intention to resign from the role of Prime Minister by 7 February, 2023. But what does this mean for Parliament, and how will a new Prime Minister be chosen? Read more ?https://t.co/kFBuQIVYyc

— NZ Parliament (@NZParliament) January 19, 2023

The Labour caucus will move to elect a new leader, with a vote scheduled for January 22 to gauge whether one person has two-thirds support. If no-one has that level of support, the contest will go to the wider party membership. It is expected that process will conclude no later than February 7.

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