WELLINGTON: New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced on Wednesday that the nation would have a general election on November 7. The vote will decide whether his coalition government stays in power.
Luxon said timing was affected by major sporting events, including a home match between Athe ll Blacks and Australia a month previously. He said that the date provides voters a clear choice on the country’s direction.
The prime minister highlighted his government’s record on the economy and on security. He said that the administration had worked on fixing core problems since taking office two years ago.
Luxon told reporters the economic situation was improving. He cited increased business and consumer confidence, building and manufacturing growth, and better export results.
He said that inflation had reduced to less than three percent compared to approximately seven percent under the previous Labour-led government. Luxon also mentioned a free trade agreement reached with India and said that the legislation to formalise the agreement is expected to pass later this year.
On crime, Luxon said police presence has increased, and victims have dropped. He claimed youth offending had reduced to 16 percent and ram raids had dropped sharply.
According to recent opinion polls, the race is tight. A Taxpayers Union and Curia survey published last month made Labour slightly ahead of the National Party of Luxon. However, the numbers suggest that the current coalition may still form a government with support from partner parties.
The election campaign is expected to focus on the economy, cost of living, and law and order as parties prepare for the November vote.
