Labour has carried out a significant caucus reshuffle with eight months remaining before the next election, redistributing several key portfolios and promoting a number of MPs within its ranks.
According to a report by Tom Day of Stuff, the changes come as the party prepares for the departure of MP Peeni Henare, whose responsibilities included foreign affairs and defence. While those portfolios were expected to be reassigned, the party opted for a broader reshuffle affecting multiple roles and list rankings.
Vanushi Walters has been appointed Labour’s new spokesperson for foreign affairs, moving up from her previous role as associate spokesperson. She will also take on responsibility for the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) and the Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB). Walters rises significantly on Labour’s party list, moving from 33 to 12, Tom Day of Stuff has reported.
Walters returned to Parliament last year after replacing David Parker.
Trade spokesperson Damien O’Connor will take over the defence portfolio.
Meanwhile, Willow-Jean Prime has been removed from the education role she was promoted to last year. She will instead take on the social development portfolio, previously held by Willie Jackson.
Ginny Andersen, who currently holds the police, jobs and incomes, and treaty negotiations portfolios, will become Labour’s spokesperson for education, according to Stuff.
Camilla Belich has been promoted to the justice portfolio, replacing Duncan Webb, who is set to retire at the upcoming election. Belich will continue to hold the public service portfolio.
Reuben Davidson has been assigned the economic development portfolio while retaining responsibility for broadcasting, science and technology. He also moves up Labour’s list from 30 to 13.
Several other MPs have been given new responsibilities in the reshuffle:
A number of senior Labour figures will retain their existing portfolios. These include Barbara Edmonds in finance, Ayesha Verrall in health, Kieran McAnulty in housing, Megan Woods in energy, Tangi Utikere in transport and Willie Jackson in Māori-Crown relations, Stuff has reported.
Carmel Sepuloni will remain the party’s deputy leader.
Among Labour’s newer MPs, Georgie Dansey will take on rainbow issues and regulation, while Dan Rosewarne will become spokesperson for rural communities and small business.
Labour leader Chris Hipkins said the reshuffle reflects the party’s focus on the issues voters care about most.
“New Zealanders are looking for a government that’s focused on the issues that matter - the cost of living, jobs, health and homes. Our team is energised, experienced, and ready to govern," as quoted by Stuff.