New Zealand's Labour, Greens and Māori Party join forces against divisive legislation.
The opposition parties in New Zealand have come together to express their concerns over the Government's proposed Treaty Principles Bill. The bill has been met with criticism from Labour leader Chris Hipkins, Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick, and Te Pāti Māori co-leaders Rawiri Waititi and Debbie Ngarewa-Packer.
According to the three opposition parties, the bill fails to uphold the promises made in the Treaty of Waitangi and disregards the voices of Māori. They argue that the legislation is divisive and ignores a scathing Waitangi Tribunal report. In contrast, the Prime Minister has been accused of sidelining Māori voices and pandering to a "dangerous, reactionary fringe".
The opposition parties are calling on all New Zealanders to mobilise with them against the bill and advocate for a future that respects Te Tiriti. This comes as the country's Māori population unites in their fight against what they see as an attack on their rights and identity.
A Hīkoi for Te Tiriti is planned, with leaders encouraging all New Zealanders to join the movement to protect the principles of partnership, participation, and protection that the Treaty embodies. The opposition parties have called on Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to take personal responsibility for upholding the constitutional obligation to honour the Treaty.
The future of the bill remains uncertain as the opposition parties continue to rally against its passage.