Deputy Prime Minister and ACT Leader David Seymour says former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern should appear before the Royal Commission into New Zealand’s COVID-19 response, calling it a crucial opportunity for accountability and future preparedness.
Speaking to Ryan Bridge, Seymour was unequivocal.
"Absolutely, she should be there," Seymour said. "The COVID pandemic and the government's response to it were major events. I’d argue the most significant political and economic events of this century so far."
The Royal Commission has confirmed it wants to hear from Ardern and former Director-General of Health, Dr Ashley Bloomfield. However, because both are currently based overseas, they cannot be compelled to attend unless they are in the country.
Seymour stressed the importance of their involvement.
"We need to get to the bottom of what happened, not just for historical reasons, but because there will be more epidemics in our lifetime," he said. "We literally cannot afford to respond to the next one the way we responded to the last."
Questions remain over whether Ardern intends to cooperate. She has so far refused to confirm whether she will return to New Zealand to give evidence, whether she has engaged legal representation, or what her general position is regarding the inquiry.
Pressed on whether the government had any insight into her plans, Seymour said, "No, we don’t. And I’ve got to stress, the Royal Commission is an independent body. We don’t direct it."
However, he made his personal position clear: "She was the key decision maker. All voices should be at the table."
The Royal Commission, which is expected to deliver its final report in early 2026, has already begun hearing from experts, public officials and citizens impacted by lockdowns, vaccine mandates and border closures.
Ardern's absence could overshadow its legitimacy if a central figure in New Zealand’s pandemic response opts to stay silent.
"People may feel like we’ve moved on," Seymour added. "But we must learn from this, and that means everyone who played a role needs to front."
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