Justice Minister Kiri Allan Resigns Amidst Reckless Driving and Arrest Charges
New Zealand's Justice Minister, Kiri Allan, has resigned following a car crash and charges of reckless driving and resisting arrest, adding to a series of scandals involving government ministers before national elections. Prime Minister Chris Hipkins acknowledged Allan's mental health struggles but deemed her actions inexcusable. Opposition leader Christopher Luxon expressed sympathy for Allan but raised concerns about Hipkins' judgment. The incident could impact the upcoming elections on October 14th.
New Zealand's Justice Minister, Kiri Allan, has resigned after being charged with reckless driving and resisting arrest following a car crash. This incident is the latest in a string of missteps and scandals involving government ministers, which comes less than three months before national elections.
The crash involving Allan took place on Sunday evening in Wellington, where she was detained at the central police station for approximately four hours. Prime Minister Chris Hipkins revealed that Allan's breath test showed her to be over the legal alcohol limit, although she was not charged with drunk driving.
Instead, she was issued an infringement notice relating to the breath test. Allan, who was once considered a rising star of the Labour Party, has recently taken time off for her mental health following a high-profile split with her partner and accusations of poor working relationships with staff.
Hipkins had a conversation with Allan on Monday morning, expressing his belief that she was not in a fit state to remain a minister. Recognizing the gravity of being a justice minister charged with criminal offenses, Allan agreed and resigned from her ministerial roles.
While Allan remains a member of Parliament for now, her actions have been deemed inexcusable by Hipkins. However, he acknowledged that she was experiencing extreme emotional distress at the time of the incident, linking it to her documented personal struggles with mental health.
Allan expressed remorse for her actions and stated that she would be reflecting on her future in politics. This resignation follows other recent departures from the Labor Party, including Transport and Immigration Minister Michael Wood, Police Minister Stuart Nash, and Customs Minister Meka Whaitiri.
Opposition leader Christopher Luxon offered sympathy to Allan, hoping she receives the support she needs. However, he raised concerns about Hipkins' judgment in light of the various scandals surrounding government ministers. With the national elections approaching on October 14th, these events could have significant implications for the political landscape in New Zealand.
