Senior Labour MP Kieran McAnulty has rejected suggestions he could make a bid to become the party’s leader, saying only journalists ask him about the topic.
Speculation about former prime minister Chris Hipkins’ leadership has simmered since he led Labour to a shattering defeat at last year’s election.
In an interview with Q+A, McAnulty ruled out running to become the party’s leader – even if a vacancy was available.
He said: “The only people that talk about this are journos, and they have got the same answer from me every single time they’ve asked me.
“I just don’t want it. I’m not interested. He’s genuinely a mate and I 100% back him. Even if that wasn’t the case and there was a vacancy, I still wouldn’t be putting my hand up, because I just don’t want the job. I’m more than happy where I am.”
McAnulty, seen as a rising star during the previous government, has been tipped as a future leadership contender. Earlier this year, PM Christopher Luxon used the speculation during a raucous Question Time in Parliament, to hit back against Chris Hipkins.
Asked if people had approached him about running, he told Q+A: “Nope.”
“We back him (Chris Hipkins) to win the next election, I actually think he’s got a bloody good chance of doing that.”
On the speculation, McAnulty added: “It’s not really helpful – particularly when these conversations aren’t happening in the party. Not many leaders in Parliament can say they’ve got the unanimous support of caucus, but Chris Hipkins can.
“You guys got to accept that and let us get on with it.”
McAnulty has previously ruled out a bid to replace Hipkins last year.
Watch the full interview in the video above
Q+A with Jack Tame is made with the support of New Zealand On Air
