(VOVworld) – New Zealand’s Prime Minister John Key unexpectedly announced his resignation on Monday after 8 years in power, citing family reasons for his departure.
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New Zealand’s Prime Minister John Key in a press conference in Auckland on October 17th, 2016 (Photo: EPA/VNA)
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In his announcement, Key said he will leave office on December 12th and urged the National Party to hold a special meeting to elect for a new leader. Key said he cannot serve out a full fourth term but will stay in parliament until the next national election, which is expected to be next November, 2017, to avoid a by-election for his seat.
John Key has served as New Zealand’s Prime Minister since 2008.