New Zealand’s Prime Minister John Key to Resign After Eight Years in Office

Source: Time

BY Nick Perry / AP

He said he had made personal sacrifices and the job had taken a toll on his family

(WELLINGTON, New Zealand) — New Zealand’s popular Prime Minister John Key stunned the nation Monday when he announced he was resigning after eight years as leader.

Key had been widely expected to contest his fourth general election next year. But he said he wanted to ensure he didn’t make the mistake that some other world leaders have done, and instead wanted to leave while he was on top of his game.

Speaking in a shaking voice, Key said he had made personal sacrifices for the job and the role had taken a toll on his family.

Key said his National Party caucus would meet Dec. 12 to decide on a new party leader and prime minister, and that he expected to officially hand in his resignation that same day.

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