Jakarta, IO – Chris Hipkins, 44, has been officially sworn in by New Zealand Governor-General Cindy Kiro as the 41st Prime Minister of New Zealand, replacing Jacinda Ardern, Wednesday (25/1). He promised to implement a back-to-basics vision that focuses on the economy and what he described as the “pandemic of inflation,” reported ABC.
Hipkins is a seasoned politician who previously served as education and police minister under Ardern. Besides the top leadership role, he will also be the minister of national security and intelligence.
“This is the biggest privilege and responsibility of my life. I am energized and excited by the challenges that lie ahead,” Hipkins said after taking the oath.
Read: Jacinda Ardern quits as New Zealand PM
Hipkins is known for his role in leading the Covid-19 pandemic response. Meanwhile, Ardern made her last public appearance as prime minister yesterday. She said the thing she would miss most was the people because they have been the “joy of the job.” (bp)