Pages

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Ele Ludemann: Why won’t they front


The second phase of the Royal Commission inquiry into Covid has begun its public hearing.

It’s looking into the government’s response and its effects.

You’d think that the Prime Minister of the day and the Covid Response Minister would have some important information to impart, and be there to explain why they did what they did and to answer questions.

The then-Minister, Chris Hipkins is answering questions from the inquiry in writing but, at least for now, neither he nor then-PM Jacinda Ardern will be fronting up.

Why not?

It would be tempting to point fingers at, and apportion blame for mistakes to, them.

But the most important outcome of the inquiry will be lessons from both what went right and wrong to ensure that if, or when, we’re faced with something similar in the future.

Surely they have a duty to contribute to that.

Ele Ludemann is a North Otago farmer and journalist, who blogs HERE - where this article was sourced.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

According to the Herald, the Commission hasn't yet decided who will be asked to appear before it to give evidence. Jacinda has said she will give evidence to allow the Commission to meet its terms of reference. It is therefore unclear whether Jacinda will actually front up or only answer questions in writing. However, it is difficult to criticize her for that if she hasn't been asked to appear.

Anonymous said...

Perhaps many people might not want that person back in New Zealand for any reason - I'm guessing security concerns is another?