The co-leader of New Zealand’s Māori Party has been kicked out of parliament after performing a haka in protest against “racist propaganda and rhetoric” from the country’s National Party.
In recent weeks, the National Party has hit out at Jacinda Ardern’s Labour government in opposition to a “separatist agenda” it is said to be pursuing by looking at ways it can better uphold Indigenous rights, including by potentially establishing a new Māori Health Authority.
Tensions came to a head on Wednesday when National Party leader Judith Collins questioned Ms Ardern, prompting Māori Party co-leader Rawiri Waititi to stand up and address House Speaker Trevor Mallard.
"Mr Speaker, I seek your guidance and advice," Mr Waititi said. "Over the past two weeks, there has been racist propaganda and rhetoric towards tangata whenua (Māori people). That not only is insulting to tangata whenua, but diminishes the mana (honour) of this House."
Mr Mallard said it was his responsibility to let the “broad range of views of the House” be aired, and while some views may be of “discomfort” to some MPs, Ms Collins’ line of questioning had not crossed a line.
Mr Waititi rose again, saying: “If we find this thing, this attitude acceptable in this House - a constant barrage of insults to tangata whenua - then I find this House in disrepute.”
Mr Mallard told Mr Waititi to sit down and said his microphone had been turned off – prompting him to begin a passionate haka in the middle of the chamber.
He was then ordered to leave.
Mr Waititi's co-party leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Green MP Teanau Tuiono walked out of the House in solidarity with him, New Zealand publisher Stuff reported.
Outside parliament following his ejection, Mr Watiti told reporters he was “sick and tired of Māori being used as a political football”.
It’s not the first time the Māori Party co-leader has been kicked out of parliament.
In February, he was accused of breaching a dress code requiring male politicians to wear a tie when asking questions.
He had been repeatedly stopped by Mr Mallard when trying to ask questions, as he was not wearing a tie. When he continued to speak, .
“It’s not about ties, it’s about cultural identity mate,” he said as he left the chamber.
