Introduction: The Book Announcement

Jacinda Ardern, once our beloved Prime Minister of New Zealand, decided to step back into the limelight by announcing her new book, A Different Kind of Power, on her Facebook page. This book is set to give us an insider’s look into her journey as a leader, particularly through the tough times like the COVID-19 crisis. But, as you can imagine, her announcement was like throwing a match into a room full of gas – it sparked a lot of discussion.

A Backlash Brews: Phil Jacky Turner’s Critique

Among the flood of comments, one really hit home. Phil Jacky Turner, whose life was directly impacted by Ardern’s COVID-19 policies, didn’t hold back:

“All I can say, is she is not fit to write a book on herself. When she made my son who lived in Japan enter the lottery for a Covid room when I had just had a Brain Cancer operation. When she blocked me traveling from Auckland to Hamilton during my Chemo treatment. I would not pi#s on if she was on fire.”

Turner’s comment strips back the veneer of policy to show the human cost, painting a stark picture of what leadership decisions can mean for everyday people.

Public Reaction: A Mixed Bag

Her post has seen an avalanche of engagement, with 20.6K comments and 1.6K shares, showing just how much this topic resonates with people. 55% of those who reacted seemed to like her post, maybe out of respect or just plain curiosity about what she has to say. But there’s a significant chunk – 45% who felt disgust, and 33% who were outright angry – indicating that her time in office has left a mixed legacy.

Graham Bloxham’s Take

Graham Bloxham, over at One Network Wellington Live, couldn’t ignore this firestorm. He jumped on camera, promising to dive deep:

“I will ask my head of digital to analyse this whole situation on the comments and write a detailed story about it.”

Bloxham’s promise to look closer at the public’s reaction shows just how much this book has stirred the pot regarding Ardern’s leadership.

Analysis: The Digital Head’s Perspective

From where I sit, looking at all those comments and stats, it’s clear Ardern’s book isn’t just about her triumphs; it’s about the real-life, gritty impacts of her decisions. While many of us admired her for her compassionate approach during crises, for others like Turner, those decisions meant real hardship and challenges.

The anger and frustration from a good chunk of the audience remind us that leadership, even when it’s meant well, can leave lasting effects on people’s lives.

Conclusion: Reflecting on Leadership and Legacy

As Jacinda Ardern brings A Different Kind of Power to the table, she’s not just releasing a book; she’s reopening a dialogue about how we view our leaders. Do we remember them for their policies’ successes, or do we see them through the lens of personal stories of struggle? That’s the conversation Ardern’s book has unintentionally reignited.