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Bill English poised to become prime minister of New Zealand
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New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Bill English (center) announces to journalists that he will run for the vacant prime minister's job, in Wellington, New Zealand, Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2016. (New Zealand Herald via AP/Mark Mitchell)
B
ill English has moved closer to becoming New Zealand's next leader following the shock resignation this week of Prime Minister John Key.
English on Thursday appeared to have secured the majority support he needed from his 58 National Party colleagues in the parliament. One of his two challengers for the role conceded, saying English had the majority. The other challenger said he'd yet to count the numbers and wasn't ready to concede.
English has been Key's trusted deputy for the past eight years and has been praised for his handling of the economy in his role as finance minister. Critics say the 54-year-old lacks the charisma needed for the top job.
The National Party caucus is scheduled to meet on Monday and officially announce the winner.
