“I applaud Jacinda Ardern for her leadership and strength. There are only a few who can be empathetic and have the courage to recognise change for an equitable society and I think she knew she had a difficult road ahead of her. She is the most down to earth Prime Minister I’ve met yet, astute and to the point,” said Manisha Morar, Vice President, New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA).
Morar was speaking to the Indian Weekender following news of Jacinda Ardern’s decision to step down as prime minister.
Morar recalled her meetings with Ardern to discuss the concerns of the Indian community, once over immigration matters and recently about the retail crime emergency, and says Ardern has had to work hard to build trust in the relationship.
“As a community, we’ve played our role, not only socially but also for our livelihoods, particularly around consideration for small businesses and family reunification post Covid,” Morar noted.
However, Ardern failed to strike a chord with the Indian community.
“There was ample opportunity for her [Ardern] to engage positively through the social invitations, but unfortunately she missed the mark.”
Morar observed: “As a female leader, Jacinda had the determination [considering that] we still live in a gender biased society.”
Morar said she did not disagree with Ardern’s decision to step down as prime minister.
“Jacinda has had a lot thrown at her during her term. Being hurled abuse day in and day out does take a toll. It will be a difficult journey for the next person, whoever takes it on. We live in a very ‘woke’ world now,” Morar added.