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September 15, 2013
Jonesy reinvigorates Labour Maori supporters
Waatea Team
Posted On September 15, 2013
Te Tai Tonga MP Rino Tirikatene says Shane Jones’ run for Labour Party leader has reinvigorated the party’s Maori supporters.
The contest was won on the first ballot by New Lynn MP David Cunliffe with over 51 percent of the vote.
Wellington Central MP Grant Robertson trailed on 32 percent, with Mr Jones getting 15 percent.
Mr Tirikatene says Mr Jones went in as the underdog, and the numbers hide the magnitude of his achievement.
" Who else could come back from where hes been to be a major force in NZ politics. His crossover appeal is very important for Labour now and in to the future. Hes demonstrated from this process hes a leading figure in our party and in NZ politics and Im looking forward to doing some work with him as we get behind our new leader " says Mr Tirkatene.
Labour’s caucus will meet tomorrow to elect a new deputy-leader, but Shane Jones has ruled himself out of going for the job.
Copyright © 2013, UMA Broadcasting Ltd
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