Chris Hipkins: Uphill battle looms for New Zealand's next PM
BBC NewsJan 21, 2023
On Sunday, New Zealand's ruling Labour Party approved Chris Hipkins to replace Jacinda Ardern as its leader, making him the 41st prime minister in the country's history.
Hipkins — who emerged as the only candidate to lead the Labour Party — swiftly appointed Carmel Sepuloni as the nation's first deputy prime minister. Ardern will formally tender her resignation to the governor-general before Hipkins is sworn in on Wednesday.
Labour is bleeding public support as dissatisfaction with high inflation and prolonged COVID controls batter New Zealand's tourism industry. Though he's seen as the safest choice for the party, Chris Hipkins faces an uphill task to convince the country that he can turn the economy around. Strict lockdowns and extended border closures knocked the economy and Ardern out and the forecast isn't looking any different for Hipkins.
Ardern's sudden resignation left the Labour party without a successor and in far worse shape to fight the Oct. 14 election. Nonetheless, Hipkins is a household name who can step out of Ardern's shadow and take New Zealand to new heights. A career politician, Hipkins has the political antennae to reconnect the government with loyal voters, drop unpopular policies, and ensure New Zealand's politics reach global prominence.