On January 22, New Zealand’s ruling Labor Party approved the nomination of Chris Hipkins to replace her Jacinda Ardern as party leader, thereby becoming the country’s 41st Prime Minister.
Earlier, on January 19, Ms. Ardern suddenly announced her resignation, due to concerns that she did not have enough energy to take over the leadership of the country.
Mr. Hipkins, 44, is the only candidate for the leadership position New Zealand’s ruling Labor Party. The Labor Party approved the decision during the party’s closed-door meeting on January 22.
Speaking when being appointed to the new position, Mr. Hipkins stated that this is the greatest honor and also the highest responsibility in life, and affirmed that he is ready to take over the new position.
[Hé lộ gương mặt sẽ được lựa chọn làm tân Thủ tướng New Zealand]
Mr. Hipkins selected Ms. Carmel Sepuloni as Deputy Prime Minister, marking the first time New Zealand has had a Deputy Prime Minister who is from the Pacific region.
Mr. Hipkins is increasingly building trust in New Zealand by taking on the role of leading the COVID-19 prevention and control efforts in the country, after being appointed Minister in charge of COVID-19 at the end of the year. 2020. He also played a very good role in helping Ms. Ardern lead the country.
Meanwhile, Ms. Sepuloni, 46, has held many positions in areas such as social development, employment, art, culture and heritage. Mr. Hipkins said the full cabinet list would be published soon.
As is customary, before Mr. Hipkins takes office, Ms. Ardern will formally announce her decision to resign to the representative of King Charles of the United Kingdom in New Zealand, Governor-General Cindy Kiro. Mrs. Kiro will then appoint Mr. Hipkins to hold the new position. Mr Hipkins said he would be sworn in on January 25.
Le Anh (VNA/Vietnam+)