WA Premier Mark McGowan has introduced he’ll stand down as each state chief and member for Rockingham subsequent week.
Making the announcement at a media convention early Monday afternoon, Mr McGowan mentioned though he’s leaving politics, he doesn’t need to cease working.
“In terms of what’s next for me, I’m going to have a break,” he mentioned with a chuckle.
“I don’t know what else I’ll do; I don’t want to finish work completely.
“Once I’m rested and recuperated, I’ll look for something else to do.”
He joked he might take up the position of outgoing Sunrise host David Kosch, or coach Richmond’s AFL aspect.
“I’ll see what the future holds. I don’t have any plans – I’ve discussed it with no one.”
Mr McGowan went on to elucidate the easy motive behind his determination.
“I’m tired. Extremely tired,” he mentioned.
“In fact, I’m exhausted.
“The role of political leadership does not stop, it is relentless. With huge responsibility but it is all consuming, each and every day. And combined with the Covid years, it has taken it out of me.
“I‘m convinced WA Labor can win and will win the next election in 2025. But I just don’t have the energy or drive that is required to continue in the role as Premier.
“Therefore, I will be resigning as Premier and member for Rockingham. This week will be my final week.”
One reporter requested Mr McGowan how the “burnout” had affected his life.
“Sleepless nights,” mentioned the outgoing Premier.
“Excess worry about things, the Covid experience, three years of every day standing here, having to deal with that, that drained me a lot. But just being Premier drains you.
“I’m not a combative person, but every day I have to engage in argument and debate, and I’m tired of it. That’s political life. If you can’t handle it, don’t get into it … it’s better I say farewell now before I start showing it.”
Mr McGowan wouldn’t be drawn on who he thinks ought to take the reins as soon as he steps down – his deputy Roger Cook will take over as Premier within the interim after Mr McGowan stands down on the finish of the week.
Labor Prime Minister Anthony Albanese launched a press release by which he mentioned he spoke to Mr McGowan earlier on Monday to congratulate him on his retirement and all his achievements as Premier.
“Mark leaves office as he led, on his own terms and as his own man,” wrote Mr Albanese.
“Above all, Mark will be remembered for seeing the people of Western Australian safely through one of the most challenging crises in our nation’s history.”
Source: www.news.com.au
