The race to become New Zealand’s next prime minister is wide open following Jacinda Ardern’s shock decision to resign and her obvious successor and deputy Grant Robertson confirming he will not be going for the job.
The ruling Labour Party will vote Sunday on a new leader to take it to the general election set for Oct. 14. The stakes are high for the party that has seen its popularity sink amid growing frustrations over inflation and social inequality, a reversal in fortunes after Ardern was globally lauded for steering New Zealand through the pandemic.
Several contenders from Ardern’s Cabinet have emerged, including Education Minister Chris Hipkins, Housing Minister Megan Woods, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta, Justice Minister Kiritapu Allan and Immigration Minister Michael Wood.