Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has staged a surprise comeback in the political spotlight, just days before the forthcoming general election on Oct. 14. Her reappearance is being touted as a last-minute show of support for the Labour Party, the very party she once steered.

Ardern, who famously charmed the nation with "Jacindamania" during her 2017 election win and led the Labour Party for nearly six years, stepped down unexpectedly in January 2023. Her absence from the political arena in the run-up to the election had raised questions, but she has now addressed this.

Read: UKG names Aaron Thorne as Managing Director for ANZ and Southeast Asia

Time for introspection

Ardern is currently in the United States, pursuing a fellowship at Harvard University. During her time there, she has engaged in a variety of academic activities, including making guest appearances in classes, interacting with students, and participating in forums. She has described this period as an opportunity for introspection and reflection on her time in office.

Nevertheless, Ardern has moved to quell any uncertainty about her stance through a Facebook Live video. She clarified that her absence was a deliberate choice to allow her successor, Chris Hipkins, to lead the party.

"I haven't been very present this election. Part of that decision really needed to be to hand over the political mantle to others and to the wonderful team I had the privilege to work alongside – the Labour team." She also acknowledged the significance of this decision after 15 years in politics.

Ardern emphasised that her withdrawal from the political scene does not signify a lack of opinion. She stressed that she, like every other voter, holds strong opinions and values. Encouraging viewers to vote for what they believe in for the present and future of New Zealand, Ardern outlined her guiding principles, which include concerns about child welfare, climate change, environmental issues, health, and education.

She expressed gratitude to those who voted for her in 2017, emphasising that it signified support for her stances on child poverty and climate change. While acknowledging the progress made during the two terms of the Labour Party's rule, she urged voters to consider the necessity of continuing the work.

Ardern concluded her online appearance by speaking about Chris Hipkins. Drawing from her knowledge of him as a colleague, friend, and minister, she vouched for his character and commitment to the people of New Zealand.

Read: Jason Doherty takes over as next CEO for KPMG New Zealand

A return to politics?

As the general election approaches, Ardern's return to the political arena adds an unexpected twist, and her endorsement of the Labour Party carries considerable weight. The election's outcome remains uncertain, with a right-wing coalition led by New Zealand First gaining ground, but Ardern's reemergence is sure to stir discussions and influence voters as they head to the polls.