October 03, 2016
Tainui leader tapped for Maori Party run
Waikato Tainui leader Rahui Papa is considering running for the Maori Party in the Hauraki Waikato seat.
It’s part of the plan by party president Tukoroirangi Morgan to win all seven Maori seats away from Labour by putting up high profile candidates.
Sitting MP Nanaia Mahuta has accused Mr Morgan, who formerly held the chair of Waikato Tainui’s Te Arataura executive now occupied by Mr Papa, of compromising the independence of the tribe and the Kingitanga through his work with the Maori Party.
Mr Papa told Radio Waatea’s Manako programme his ongoing relationship with Ms Mahuta, who also holds senior tribal roles, will be a factor in his decision.
He’s also concerned about the time it means he will be away from his young family, but he believes he can make a positive contribution for Maori by being in parliament.
It's possible an announcement could be made as early as this weekend, when the Kingitanga poukai is held at Waahi, Ms Mahuta's home marae.
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