A prominent member of the Auckland Kiwi-Indian community and Chairperson of Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust, Jeet Suchdev, has expressed surprise at the news of the abrupt resignation of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
On Thursday (January 19), Ardern announced her decision to step down after running the country for more than five years. She confirmed that she will not seek re-election and will stand down on February 7.
"I have given my absolute all to being Prime Minister, but it has also taken a lot out of me. You cannot and should not do the job unless you have a full tank, plus a bit in reserve for those unplanned and unexpected challenges that inevitably come along," Ardern said.
"Having reflected over the summer, I know I no longer have that bit extra in the tank to do the job justice. It's that simple."
Talking to the Indian Weekender, Suchdev said, “I am still in shock and trying to figure out why Jacinda Ardern would take such a drastic decision. Her announcement has left the community confused, and people are clueless about what's next with Labour Party and who will be the country's next Prime Minister. It is not a good situation for any country to be in.”
Suchdev further revealed that, according to him, this was not the right time for Ardern to make this decision. He said, "It is a big setback, and I feel she should not have resigned at this time as the country is reeling with increasing crime and not rather a gloomy economy. I hope this gets sorted, and we know what's next?"
Moving on, Suchdev is seemingly excited about the upcoming Indian Republic Day celebration by the Auckland Indian Diaspora on Sunday, January 22 2023, at Mahatma Gandhi Centre.
“It is a matter of great pride that the Auckland Indian diaspora is coming together to celebrate our national day. The event will begin at 10 am at the Auckland Indian Association’s Mahatma Gandhi Centre, 145 New North Road, Eden Terrace, Auckland. There will be hoisting of the Indian national flag hoisting, cultural performances as well a delicious lunch. I encourage our Kiwi Indian community members to come in large numbers.”
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