New Zealand PM survives second leadership challenge ahead of election

What the report says

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has retained the backing of his National Party after a confidence vote held amid growing speculation about his leadership, according to BBC World News. The meeting came about 12 weeks before the country’s general election, scheduled for 7 November, and followed a period of weak polling and criticism of Luxon’s recent public remarks.

Luxon told reporters after the more than three-hour caucus meeting that he had the full support of his party and that the caucus was united behind an election campaign. BBC reported that this was the second leadership challenge he has faced in four months, reflecting unease within and around the governing party as support remains soft.

The report said Luxon’s government has been under pressure from sluggish economic growth, rising unemployment and a series of political missteps. Recent controversy included his suggestion of a possible referendum on New Zealand’s electoral system without consulting colleagues, and comments urging small business owners to “be adult,” for which he later apologised.

Luxon, a former Air New Zealand chief executive, led National to victory in 2023 with promises to lower living costs and cut taxes. His party’s weak polling matters because it raises questions about whether the centre-right government can recover before voters head to the polls.