Jacinda Ardern is stepping down after five years as New Zealand’s prime minister.
The 42-year-old politician, who was elected in 2017 at the age of 37, insists she has no “gas tank” left and her final term in office will be February 7.
Fighting back tears at a news conference, she told the world: “I know what the job entails and I know I don’t have enough money in the tank anymore to do it justice. Simple as that.
“This summer, I had hoped to find a way to prepare not only for the next year, but for the next semester – because that was the requirement this year. I couldn’t.”
Ardern insists she has given “everything” [she] “Can” during her tenure, during which she faced the country’s worst terrorist attack – a white supremacist gunman killed 51 people at two mosques in Christchurch – the coronavirus pandemic and a volcanic eruption .
She added: “I know that after this decision, there will be a lot of discussion about the so-called real reasons.
“The only angle you’ll find interesting is that after six years of some big challenges, I’m human. Politicians are human. We do what we can, for as long as we can, and then it’s time. For me, it’s time.”
New Zealand’s Labor Party will vote for a new leader this weekend, with the successful candidate in power until the country’s next general election on October 14.
“Jurassic Park” star Sam Neill, 75, shot at Ardern’s defense after the news broke.
The New Zealand actor wrote on Instagram: “#PrimeMinister @jacindaardern resigned today. I’m not surprised and I don’t blame her. The way she’s been treated the past few months left, right, wronged appalling bunch , whiner, lunatic, know-it-all, misogynist, etc. is shameful and embarrassing. I think she was a great leader in the toughest of times. She deserves better. We will get what we deserve- Low leadership. I will miss her personally. Thank her. And wish her a happier future (sic)”
