Shane Reti Removed from Health Portfolio in PM’s Cabinet Reshuffle
In a surprising turn of events, Health Minister Shane Reti has been ousted from his role in a cabinet reshuffle orchestrated by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The move comes amidst growing concerns about Reti’s performance in the health portfolio, which has been a major headache for Luxon and his government.
Luxon, who recently returned from the UAE, wasted no time in making significant changes to his team as they gear up for their first caucus meeting next week. The reshuffle, described as “reasonably big,” is expected to have far-reaching implications for the National Party and its future direction.
Luxon’s Decision to Reshuffle
Luxon’s decision to shake up his cabinet was not part of his initial plan for the year, as he had previously indicated a different approach to making changes only when necessary. However, recent developments, including a poll showing Labour ahead of National for the first time in almost a year, likely prompted him to rethink his strategy.
The reshuffle, set to be announced on Sunday, will not affect the ministerial portfolios of Act and New Zealand First ministers due to coalition agreements. However, several names have surfaced as potential replacements for Reti, including Judith Collins, Paul Goldsmith, and Simeon Brown.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Luxon faces a challenging task in reallocating key portfolios, given the limited options at his disposal. With a small team of experienced ministers already carrying heavy workloads, finding the right fit for the health role is crucial. The decision to replace Reti could also present an opportunity for National to address campaign promises, such as opening a new medical school at Waikato University.
As Luxon navigates the complexities of reshuffling his cabinet, the focus remains on revitalizing the National Party and setting the tone for his leadership moving forward. With a State of the Nation speech on the horizon, Luxon’s actions in the coming days will undoubtedly shape the future of his government and the country as a whole.