Craig Stobo to run for New Zealand First in Botany

Craig Stobo, the former chairman of the Financial Markets Authority (FMA), has announced his candidacy for New Zealand First in the Botany electorate for the upcoming November election. Stobo will contest the seat currently held by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.

Stobo resigned from the FMA in May following an independent review which concluded that certain aspects of his public commentary did not meet the standards of political neutrality expected of a Crown entity board chair. The review specifically noted his personal submissions regarding the Treaty Principles Bill and queries regarding mandatory climate reporting disclosures.

New Zealand First has defended the candidacy, describing Stobo as an outspoken individual who is not afraid to challenge the status quo. Meanwhile, the party has emphasized its commitment to defending New Zealand Superannuation, stating it opposes proposals to raise the eligibility age to 67 or introduce means testing.