Ardern stated that she understood what it takes to be prime minister and that she "no longer had enough in the tank to do it right," but that there were others who could.
Digital Desk: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern stated on Thursday that she will step down no later than February 7, according to DW News.
"Jacinda Ardern has announced that she would not run for re-election this year, and her last day as Prime Minister is February 7. The general election in 2023 will be held on October 14, 2023 "RNZ, New Zealand's state broadcaster, tweeted about it.
Ardern's startling decision comes after leading New Zealand through the coronavirus pandemic for five and a half years.
Ardern stated that she understood what it takes to be prime minister and that she "no longer had enough in the tank to do it right," but that there were others who could.
She stated that her administration had accomplished much and that she was stepping down not because she did not believe Labour could win the next election, but because she did.
Speaking to the media, Ardern claimed there was no specific "angle" or "true reason" why she wanted to leave, only that she was "human".
"Mum is looking forward to seeing you when you start school next year, Neve. Let's finally get married, Clarke."
"This has been the most rewarding five and a half years of my life," Ardern said in a broadcast press conference, according to the NZ Herald, a local news site.
"I am leaving because with such a privileged job comes a big responsibility. The responsibility to know when you are the right person to lead - and also when you're not," she said.
With a caucus vote on Saturday, Ardern's Labour Party will begin the search for a replacement.
Ardern is one of the world's youngest female state leaders, having been elected to office at the age of 37 in 2017. She is also one of the rare elected officials who has given birth while in office.
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