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August 25, 2022
Humble Adrian Rurawhe ready for the top job
Claudette Hauiti
Posted On August 25, 2022
Download AudioParliament’s new Speaker says he’s ready for the job.
Te Tai Hauauru MP Adrian Rurawhe was yesterday elected unanimously as only the second Māori Speaker, after Sir Peter Tapsell in the 1993 to 1996 parliament.
“I feel pretty good, really honoured and actually looking forward to all of the challenges that will present themselves. there are some serious issues that need to be attended to, so I think I’m ready for it,” he says.
Adrian Rurawhe immediately stamped his authority on the role, shutting down newly independent MP Gaurav Sharma for attacking outgoing Speaker Trevor Mallard rather than addressing the kaupapa of the day.
The Maori Party welcomed the election of a Maori Speaker.
Co-leader Rawiri Waititi says he’s happy to finally have a Speaker who can pronounce Maori names.
He says the historical significance of having a mokopuna of the māngai T W Ratana elected as Speaker should not be understated.
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