John Howard vs Matti Vanhanen

Following the Port Arthur massacre, Howard's government introduced strict gun control laws, including a ban on automatic and semi-automatic weapons and a mandatory buyback scheme. The reforms significantly reduced gun violence in Australia.

Howard led the Liberal-National coalition to a landslide victory in the 1996 federal election, defeating Paul Keating's Labor government. His campaign focused on economic reform, family values, and a more conservative social agenda.

Howard's government introduced a 10% Goods and Services Tax, replacing the previous wholesale sales tax. The GST was a major tax reform that broadened the tax base and provided revenue for state governments, though it was politically controversial.

Howard committed Australian troops to the US-led invasion of Iraq, citing weapons of mass destruction. The decision was highly controversial and led to large public protests, but Howard argued it was necessary for global security.

Howard lost the 2007 federal election to Kevin Rudd's Labor Party, ending his 11-year tenure as prime minister. He also lost his own seat of Bennelong, becoming only the second sitting prime minister to lose his seat.

Vanhanen became Prime Minister of Finland in June 2003, succeeding Anneli J

Vanhanen resigned as Prime Minister in June 2010 to run for the position of European Commissioner. He was succeeded by Mari Kiviniemi. His resignation ended a seven-year tenure.

Vanhanen was elected Speaker of the Parliament of Finland in February 2022. He served in this role until April 2023, presiding over parliamentary sessions.