Voting temporarily suspended amid disruptions including a Māori party MP ripping up a copy of the bill
New Zealand’s parliament has erupted into fiery debate, personal attacks and a haka over a controversial bill that proposes to radically alter the way New Zealand’s treaty between Māori and the crown is interpreted.was tabled by the libertarian Act party – a minor partner in New Zealand’s coalition government – and passed its first reading on Thursday, amid scathing speeches and disruptions.
Speaking in the house, Act’s leader, David Seymour, said the principles “afford Māori different rights from other New Zealanders … The purpose of this bill is break this parliament’s 49 years of silence to define the principles in law so it is crystal clear what the treaty means to modern New Zealanders.”
“The principles are clear – they are about partnership, equity, active protection and redress – why does this offend the minister so much? … This bill will undermine Māori rights but still David Seymour persists with this disgusting piece of legislation.” Opposition parties called on coalition MPs to vote down the bill. “My question to MPs is: are you here to hold on to power at any cost, or are you here to do the right thing?” said Chlöe Swarbrick, the Green party co-leader.
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