Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jim Bolger Passes Away at 90

Jim Bolger, who held the office of Prime Minister in New Zealand from 1990 to 1997, has died at the age of 90. His family announced the sad news on Wednesday. Bolger was pivotal in promoting reconciliation efforts with the indigenous Maori people throughout his career.

Having battled kidney failure for over a year and undergone regular dialysis, he passed gently at home, surrounded by his wife, Joan, along with his nine children and eighteen grandchildren.

Entering Parliament in 1972, Bolger became the leader of the National Party in 1986 and led the party to victory in the 1990 elections, assuming the role of Prime Minister. After completing his political career in 1998, he served as New Zealand's ambassador to the U.S. until 2002.

Current Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid tribute to him, remarking, “He was a principled and formidable colleague to those who worked alongside him, and a worthy opponent to those across the aisle.”

Bolger's tenure was marked by significant reforms, notably the establishment of the Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) electoral system, which remains integral to New Zealand's democratic framework. His administration also made substantial strides in addressing historic grievances of Maori communities, finalizing groundbreaking settlements with various tribes impacted by colonization.

Tukoroirangi Morgan, chair of the Waikato Tainui iwi (tribe), lauded Bolger's contributions, stating, “Jim leaves a legacy in the settlement space that is unparalleled. His reforms modernized the reconciliation process, bringing New Zealand closer together.”

Advocating for republicanism, Bolger opposed New Zealand's ties to the British monarchy. Although he declined a knighthood after his political career, he was later awarded the Order of New Zealand, the country’s highest civilian honor.

Jim Bolger's passing concludes a significant chapter in New Zealand's political legacy. His contributions are remembered not just for electoral advancements and international roles but also for nurturing understanding among New Zealand’s diverse communities.