WELLINGTON, New Zealand: New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said on Monday he personally favours his country becoming a republic, but it’s not a change he intends to push for as leader. Hipkins made the comments to reporters hours before he was due to depart for this week’s coronation of King Charles III in London. New Zealand, a former British colony, is self-governing but Charles retains a largely ceremonial role as head of state and king. Like many former British colonies, New Zealand continues to wrestle with what — if any — constitutional role the British monarchy should play in modern times. Hipkins unexpectedly rose to power following the shock decision in January of former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to step down.

Source: The Nation May 02, 2023 08:32 UTC