Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Thursday praised New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who recently announced her decision to step down as the country’s leader. Ramesh, known for his outspoken views, expressed his admiration for Ardern’s leadership, suggesting that “Indian politics needs more like her.”
Ardern, who has served as Prime Minister since 2017, made the surprise announcement that February 7 would be her last day in office. She will continue to serve as a member of parliament until New Zealand’s general election, which is scheduled for October 14. Her decision to step down sent ripples through the global political community, with many commending her integrity and humility.
Referencing the iconic Indian cricket commentator Vijay Merchant, Ramesh drew a parallel between Ardern’s decision and Merchant’s famous advice about retiring at the height of one’s career. “Legendary cricket commentator, Vijay Merchant once said about retiring at the peak of his career: Go when people ask why is he going instead of why isn’t he going. Kiwi PM, Jacinda Ardern has just said she is quitting following Merchant’s maxim,” Ramesh tweeted. He followed this statement with a call for more leaders like her in Indian politics.
Ardern’s leadership has been marked by her compassionate and empathetic response to significant crises, including the Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019, which saw 51 people tragically killed, and her government’s public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Her decisive and humane handling of these tragedies catapulted her into international fame, making her a symbol of modern, empathetic leadership.
However, despite her popularity on the global stage, Ardern has faced increasing criticism at home in New Zealand. As the country grappled with economic challenges and rising inflation in the aftermath of the pandemic, Ardern’s Labour Party saw its support wane, and she became a more polarizing figure. Still, her decision to step down was viewed by many as a testament to her integrity and commitment to the office, putting the nation’s interests above personal ambition.
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In her resignation speech, Ardern stated that she no longer had the energy to continue as Prime Minister, remarking, “I am human. We give as much as we can for as long as we can, and then it’s time. And for me, it’s time.” Her candid admission of burnout and her openness about the emotional toll of leadership resonated with many, including those outside New Zealand.
Jairam Ramesh’s comment about the need for more leaders like Ardern in Indian politics highlights a growing desire for empathetic and transparent governance in India, where political leaders often face immense pressure to remain in power even when personal or national challenges mount. By acknowledging Ardern’s decision to step down, Ramesh is, in effect, calling for a shift in political culture—one where leaders prioritize the well-being of the nation and understand when to step aside.
As New Zealand prepares for its next election, the world will continue to watch Jacinda Ardern’s next moves, but her legacy as a leader who embodied empathy and accountability will endure, inspiring political leaders globally, including in India.
