Fri Nov 15 08:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Māori MPs Disrupt Parliament with Haka Protest Against Treaty Bill
**Wellington, New Zealand** – Parliament was briefly suspended on Thursday after a group of Māori MPs performed a haka to disrupt a vote on a controversial bill that has sparked protests across New Zealand. The bill, which proposes changes to the interpretation of the Treaty of Waitangi, has been met with fierce opposition from Māori communities.
The haka, a traditional Māori war dance, was led by Māori MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, who ripped up a copy of the bill as she stood to begin the performance. Members of her party, Te Pāti Māori, along with MPs from other parties and members of the public gallery, joined in.
The disruption comes amidst ongoing protests against the bill. Hundreds of people are currently participating in a nine-day hikoi, or march, from across the country to the capital, Wellington, where they are expected to hold a large rally on Tuesday.
The Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840, is a foundational document in New Zealand, establishing a relationship between the British Crown and Māori people. The proposed changes to the Treaty’s interpretation have been met with anger by many Māori, who fear they will weaken their rights and sovereignty.
The haka performance in Parliament highlights the deep and ongoing divisions surrounding the proposed bill, raising concerns about the potential for further escalation of tensions.
First Piper 