January 17, 2013
Pita Sharples clinging to rangatira role
Māori Party co-leader Pita Sharples says he intends to lead the party into the next election.
Dr Sharples is coming under pressure to join Tariana Turia in stepping aside from the leadership to allow the next generation to come through.
But he told Te Karere that he won’t pass the role on to Waiariki MP Te Ururoa Flavell.
Blogger Morgan Godfrey says it’s a missed opportunity, as the electorate is becoming increasingly young.
“What Dr Sharples is doing is really solidifying the idea that the Māori Party is the kaumatua party,” he says.
Broadcaster Merepeka Raukawa-Tait says Dr Sharples has achieved a great deal as leader, but it is time for him to go.
She says without Mrs Turia at his side, he will not be as effective.
“The time is right for a leadership change and a perceptive leader knows that. There will always be unfinished business for politicians,” she says.
Mrs Raukawa-Tait says Mr Flavell has earned the job, but he should move on if Dr Sharples will not stand down.
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