In Whanganui, controversy has erupted after Māori Ward candidate statements were left out of local election voting papers, leaving thousands of Māori voters without crucial information.
Kiritahi Firmin, standing for both the Māori Ward and the Rural Community Board, says the omission affects over 4,000 Māori roll voters and undermines fair representation.
“You know, it’s a serious concern, because our tangata tiriti, for example, need to know what we stand for in the referendum. This referendum is so important for Whanganui, the first time ever it’s happened for us. Equity is really important, given the current political climate and all the scrutiny under the Māori wards,” says Firmin
The Chief Returning Officer has accepted responsibility for the error, but candidates say more must be done to ensure Māori voices are heard and respected in the democratic process.
