Thu Nov 14 16:58:45 UTC 2024: ## Young MP’s Haka Disrupts Parliament, Sparks Protests Over Treaty Bill
**Wellington, New Zealand** – New Zealand’s youngest MP, Hana-Rawhiti Kareariki Maipi-Clarke, has once again made headlines after a dramatic performance in Parliament. The 22-year-old Te Pati Maori MP interrupted a session on the contentious Treaty Principles Bill by tearing up a copy of the legislation and performing a haka, a traditional Maori dance.
The incident, which was captured on video and quickly went viral, prompted the Speaker of the House, Gerry Brownlee, to briefly suspend the session. The haka was joined by members of the public gallery, adding to the intensity of the moment.
The Treaty Principles Bill, introduced by the ACT New Zealand party, a member of the country’s centre-right coalition government, seeks to revise some of the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, which was signed in 1840 between the British Crown and Maori chiefs. The treaty outlines the framework for governance and continues to influence legislation and policy in New Zealand today.
However, the proposed changes to the treaty have been met with fierce opposition from many Maori and their supporters, who view the bill as an attack on their rights.
In response to the bill’s passage of its first reading, hundreds of people embarked on a nine-day march, known as a “hikoi,” from northern New Zealand to the capital city of Wellington to voice their dissent.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, while acknowledging the importance of the Treaty, has expressed concerns over the proposed legislation, stating it “very simplistic” and negates 184 years of debate surrounding the Treaty.
Despite the controversy, the coalition partners, the National Party and New Zealand First, have agreed to support the bill through its first reading. However, they have confirmed their opposition to the bill becoming law. The future of the legislation remains uncertain as it faces further readings and scrutiny in Parliament.
First Piper 