ALBAWABA - Two MPs were ejected and proceedings halted in the New Zealand Parliament on Thursday over a contentious measure. Under the proposed law, the Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840 between the Māori people and the British Crown, would be expanded to include all New Zealand residents.
Opposition MPs say the bill might increase racial tensions and constitutional amendments. Smaller political parties helped the measure win its first vote on Thursday despite low support.
The Treaty of Waitangi is crucial to the relationship between New Zealand's government and the Māori people. The initial goal was to safeguard Māori land and resource rights while acknowledging British rule. Disparities between the English and Māori treaties resulted in ongoing conflicts and marginalization of the Māori.
Recent measures include land restitution, Māori participation in government, and social programs addressing past grievances and inequities.
MPs slammed the bill throughout the session. David Seymour, who proposed the bill, said it addressed a long-standing gap in treaty principles. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the governing party would initially support the measure, but opposition leaders vehemently opposed it.
MP Willie Jackson accused Seymour of dishonesty, sparking the discussion and his dismissal. During a haka performance by MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, protests escalated, causing the Speaker to postpone the session, terminate the live broadcast, and remove the public gallery.
The measure will reach the next legislative level with public input. This might spark further rallies, including a large Wellington rally next Tuesday. New Zealand's racial dynamics and the treaty's impact on its future have been revived by the political division.
