New Zealand election remains a tight race - NHKニュース
New Zealand's political parties have made their final appeals to voters in the country's general election scheduled for Saturday. Polls show a close contest between the ruling party and the opposition.
The key issues in the campaign are the cost of living and housing affordability as citizens grapple with high prices, persistent inflation and rising unemployment. The ruling National Party, led by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, has touted its achievements, including the first effective income tax cuts in 14 years. Luxon has promised not to introduce any new taxes and has proposed measures to boost exports and expand trade.On Friday, Luxon called on voters to "stick with the plan that's working under National." He said that plan means managing the economy responsibly to create "more jobs, better wages, more opportunities and a more secure future for Kiwis."The main opposition Labour Party has campaigned on policies aimed at easing pressure on household budgets, including capping public transport fares and improving healthcare. To fund these commitments, it has called for the introduction of a capital gains tax on commercial and residential property.Labour Party Leader Chris Hipkins said Friday that Labour has set out "a really clear plan" to tackle the cost of living, get people back to work, increase incomes and reduce household bills "so that Kiwis can actually get ahead through their own hard work."New Zealand has a mixed-member proportional electoral system, meaning smaller parties can play an important role in determining which major party forms the government.
Polls and media reports suggest neither major party is on track to win an outright majority.Some local media outlets have even speculated that the final results may not be known until November 27, once special votes, including those from overseas, have been counted.That's focused attention on potential coalition negotiations.One party attracting particular interest is the centrist Opportunity Party. It has picked up momentum during the campaign and is expected to win seats for the first time. It advocates a form of universal basic income, which it calls "Citizens' Income." The party has indicated it's ready to work with either the left or the right.Local media say the party leader, a 38-year-old businesswoman, could play the role of kingmaker in the formation of the next government.While voters are focused on the cost of living, the next administration will also face difficult decisions on regional security.Wellington seeks to balance its economic dependence on China, its largest trading partner, with growing security concerns. It's considering options for a new naval vessel, including Japan's Mogami-class frigate.The question of how far a new government is prepared to deepen defense cooperation with Japan and Australia is therefore likely to be closely watched across the region.The election outcome could shape not only New Zealand's domestic future, but also its role in the wider Indo-Pacific.
