Chris Hipkins succeeds Ardern in New Zealand

Chris Hipkins succeeds Ardern in New Zealand

Former pandemic minister Chris Hipkins is now officially New Zealand’s new head of government. He was sworn in in a solemn ceremony.

Following the surprise announcement of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s resignation, her successor took office on Wednesday. Former Corona and Police Minister Chris Hipkins was sworn in as Prime Minister at a ceremony in the capital Wellington. “This is the greatest privilege and responsibility of my life,” said the 44-year-old.

Widely recognized and loved at home and abroad, Ardern’s last public appearance as Prime Minister was when she walked out of Parliament to spontaneous applause from hundreds of spectators. On Tuesday, she said, “I leave with a sense of gratitude for having played this wonderful role for so many years.”

The 42-year-old surprisingly announced her resignation almost a week ago after more than five years in office. She gave the reason for not having the strength for more years in office: “I’m human. We give as much as we can. And as long as we can,” said Ardern. But then it’s time to go – “it’s time for me”.

(APA/AFP)