Jim Bolger Former New Zealand PM Dies at 90

Jim Bolger, who served as New Zealand’s Prime Minister from 1990 to 1997 and played a pivotal role in advancing reconciliation with the country’s indigenous Maori communities, has passed away at the age of 90. The announcement came from his family on Wednesday.

Bolger had been battling kidney failure since last year and was receiving regular dialysis treatments. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife, Joan, nine children, and eighteen grandchildren.

Bolger’s political journey began in 1972 when he entered New Zealand’s Parliament. In 1986, he became the leader of the National Party and led the party to victory in the 1990 general elections, assuming the office of Prime Minister. After retiring from politics in 1998, he served as New Zealand’s ambassador to the United States from 1998 to 2002.

New Zealand’s current Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, paid tribute to Bolger, saying, “To those who worked alongside him, he was a principled and formidable colleague. To his political opponents, he was a worthy adversary who never allowed disagreement to become personal.”

During his tenure as Prime Minister, Bolger introduced the Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) electoral system, a reform that continues to shape New Zealand’s democracy today. His government also made significant progress in addressing historical grievances of the Maori people, finalizing the first settlements between the government and various Maori tribes for losses caused by colonization.

Tukoroirangi Morgan, chair of the Waikato Tainui iwi (tribe), reflected on Bolger’s contribution, stating, “Jim leaves a legacy in the settlement space that will remain unsurpassed. He modernised the entire reconciliation process to bring New Zealand closer together and reflect the contemporary reality of our nation.”

Bolger was known for his strong republican views and advocated for New Zealand to move away from the British constitutional monarchy. True to his principles, he declined a knighthood after leaving politics but was later honoured with New Zealand’s highest civilian accolade, the Order of New Zealand.

Jim Bolger’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in New Zealand’s political history. His leadership is remembered not only for electoral reforms and international service but also for fostering a spirit of understanding and unity between New Zealand’s diverse communities.