Fri Nov 15 12:00:17 IST 2024: ## Controversial Treaty Bill Sparks Chaos in New Zealand Parliament

**WELLINGTON, New Zealand (The Hindu):** A proposed law seeking to redefine New Zealand’s founding treaty with Indigenous Māori has sparked a dramatic political upheaval in Parliament. The bill, introduced by libertarian party ACT leader David Seymour, aims to clarify the Treaty of Waitangi’s principles, which have been a source of debate and division for decades.

The bill passed its first vote on Thursday despite widespread opposition, fueled by concerns that it would threaten racial harmony and constitutional stability. Thousands of New Zealanders are protesting against the bill, deeming it a threat to the treaty’s spirit and the progress made in recognizing Māori rights.

The bill’s passage is attributed to a political deal between Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and ACT, a minor party that holds considerable influence due to a quirk in New Zealand’s political system. While Luxon’s party opposes the bill, they voted in favor of it to fulfill the deal that secured him power.

The debate over the bill highlights the ongoing tension between upholding the treaty’s principles and the perceived need for a definitive legal definition. While the treaty has been a cornerstone of Māori rights recognition, its interpretation has been a subject of continuous discussion and legal challenges.

The heated debate in Parliament culminated in a dramatic climax when a Māori lawmaker, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, performed a haka, a traditional Māori challenge chant, in protest. This resulted in a commotion that led to the suspension of Parliament proceedings and Maipi-Clarke’s suspension for a day.

The bill now moves to a public submission process before a final vote. Mr. Seymour is hopeful that public support will convince Luxon to reconsider his veto of the bill. The proposal is expected to reignite tensions in Parliament as thousands of protesters are set to converge in Wellington this week for one of the largest race relations marches in the country’s history.

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