Parties in New Zealand fail to form new government

By Anadolu staff

New Zealand's political parties have failed to reach on consensus to form a new government in the wake of last month’s elections, leading to an extension of the current caretaker arrangements.

Outgoing Premier Chris Hipkins and National Party leader Christopher Luxon, the presumed incoming prime minister, have agreed to seek such an extension, said an official statement.

“Under section 6 of the Constitution Act current Ministers must leave office at 11.59pm tomorrow, Saturday 11 November. Given the writ has not yet been returned due to recounts and negotiations to form a new Government are progressing the simplest solution is to roll over the current caretaker arrangements for a little bit longer,” said Hipkins.

“Following consultation with Christopher Luxon, I have written to the Governor-General to advise her to reappoint the current ministry to operate in caretaker mode until the new government is appointed,” he added.

All the Cabinet members will continue except Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta, as she was not reelected. Grant Robertson will serve as caretaker foreign minister.

The National Party won 48 out of 122 seats in last month’s general election but they still need the support of both ACT New Zealand and New Zealand First Party to form a government.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid