Chris Hipkins takes over as New Zealand Prime Minister after Jacinda Ardern resigns

() — Chris Hipkins was sworn in as New Zealand’s new prime minister on Wednesday local time after being sworn in at an official ceremony in Wellington.

Hipkins, 44, was first elected to Parliament in 2008 and spearheaded the country’s anti-Covid-19 policies in 2020. Before becoming prime minister, he was education minister, police minister and public services minister. He was also leader of the Chamber.

It was revealed on January 20 that Hipkins would replace Jacinda Ardern as prime minister after she was the only candidate nominated to lead the ruling Labor Party, the party announced in a statement at the time.

Days before, Ardern resigned and added that he does not feel energetic enough to seek re-election in the October elections.

“The decision was mine,” Ardern said. “Leading a country is the most privileged job someone can have, but also the most challenging. It can’t and shouldn’t be done unless you have a full tank, plus a little in reserve for those unplanned and unexpected challenges that can arise.”

“I no longer have enough in the tank to do the job justice,” he added.