Elaine Loughlin: Female politicians master the art of timely departure

The announcements from Nicola Sturgeon and Jacinda Ardern were in stark contrast to the long drawn-out political dramas of back-stabbing and heel-digging that have so often preceded the end of a political reign.

Elaine Loughlin On the Plinth

Male politicians could learn a lot from their female counterparts — starting with when and how to resign.

Instead of clinging onto power by their fingernails to the bitter end, Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon and New Zealand leader Jacinda Ardern parked their egos and stepped aside despite enjoying significant support from their parties and popularity among the general public.