Lifewise CEO Condemns Alleged Wickliffe Assault

Atereano Mateariki Haehaetu Barrett | Lifewise CEO Condemns Alleged Wickliffe Assault

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Lifewise Chief Executive Haehaetu Barrett says the alleged brutality against Dean Wickliffe highlights a systemic failure in how New Zealand cares for its most vulnerable.

Wickliffe, the country’s longest-serving prisoner, has been on hunger strike since March 10, claiming he was assaulted by guards after being recalled to Spring Hill Prison in Meremere for no longer having a parole address.

Barrett is calling for stronger collaboration between NGOs and Government agencies, especially as Kainga Ora emergency hotels in the Bay of Plenty begin closing, leaving many homeless kaumātua and kuia at risk.

“To see those visual photos and the kōrero from Annette. Now this just not on, and we have to come together to stop this,” says Barrett.

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