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Who is Qiulae Wong, the outsider who could decide New Zealand's next government?
Reuters • • general
Key Points:
- Qiulae Wong, leader of the centrist Opportunity Party, could hold the balance of power in New Zealand's parliament following a general election with no clear victor and a slim majority for the centre-right coalition.
- The Opportunity Party, likely entering parliament for the first time with around 7 seats, has surged in popularity under Wong's leadership, focusing on tax reforms including a universal basic income and a land tax.
- Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's centre-right coalition currently holds a narrow lead, but special votes favoring the left could shift the balance, making Wong's party a key player in coalition negotiations.
- Both major parties, National and Labour, have ruled out adopting Opportunity's tax policies, and Luxon has repeatedly stated he would not form a coalition with Opportunity, though Wong remains open to negotiations with either side.
- The final seat distribution will be confirmed after special votes are counted on November 27, which will determine whether the centre-right or centre-left bloc can form a government with or without Opportunity's support.
