New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has officially resigned

he’s gone. Outgoing New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was officially replaced by 44-year-old Chris Hipkins on Wednesday, January 25. The investiture ceremony of the new leader was held in the capital Wellington. Like his predecessor, Mr Hipkins is Labour.

Ms Ardern, 42, said last week that she had “not enough energy” to continue his duties, after five years marked by a deadly volcanic eruption, the worst attack ever to hit the country and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Christopher Hipkins was previously Minister for Home Affairs, Education and Public Services. as a nickname “chip” By his colleagues, the lanky, red-haired 40-year-old has won enough support in his party to be the only candidate to replace Ms Ardern.

“This is the greatest privilege and greatest responsibility of my life”said Mr. Hipkins at the inauguration, telling himself “motivated” and “Enthusiasm” he in front “Challenges that arise”.

Carrying out a zero covid strategy

A fourteen-year-old MP, the man became a recognized figure on the political scene when he was promoted to head the ministry responsible for combating the Covid-19 pandemic. Although his administration has taken particularly tough measures as part of the Zero Covid strategy, he has earned a reputation for competence and honesty. Faced with the pandemic, New Zealand closed its borders and only opened them in August 2022.

“I leave with a feeling of gratitude after playing this wonderful role for so many years”Jacinda Ardern told the press on Tuesday in Rattana, in the north of the country, during her last public trip as Prime Minister.

His Labor government’s popularity has soared in recent months amid a looming recession and a resurgent Conservative opposition. Her resignation sparked a nationwide debate about the abuse of women leaders, especially on social media.

Chris Hipkins called him a“absolutely odious” The attacks he suffered during his time as head of state. Jacinda Ardern said on Tuesday that she “hates” that his sudden departure is perceived as a criticism of his country.