New Zealand Parliament Rejects Controversial Treaty Principles Bill
Parliament votes 112 to 11 against a bill attempting to redefine Māori rights under the Treaty of Waitangi, following widespread public opposition.
Summary
New Zealand's Parliament overwhelming defeated the Treaty Principles Bill, which sought to redefine Indigenous rights per the Treaty of Waitangi. The legislation sparked intense debate and protests, receiving 300,000 public submissions, with 90% opposed. Proponents claimed it would create equality for all New Zealanders while opponents argued it would erode Māori rights. Following the vote, lawmakers celebrated with traditional Māori song, marking the end of a contentious legislative battle. Calls for continued dialogue regarding Māori rights are expected to persist, highlighting ongoing tensions around colonization and Indigenous relations.
Sources (3)
- The rejection of the Treaty Principles Bill is celebrated as a victory for Indigenous rights in New Zealand, with strong opposition articulated during parliamentary debates and massive public protests highlighting concerns about eroding Māori rights.
- Critics labeled the proposal as 'right-wing obscenity' and 'a stain on the country', emphasizing that it would have exacerbated disparities faced by Māori and undermined their legal rights as guaranteed by the Treaty of Waitangi.
- The parliamentary haka led by Māori representatives symbolized cultural resistance against the bill, underlining the unity among Māori communities and their allies against measures perceived to threaten their rights.
CNN·1M· "…Opponents said the courts had already settled the principles of the treaty and that the draft list Seymour put forward would erode indigenous rights and harm social cohesion."
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