A recent attack on the home of New Zealand First leader Winston Peters has sparked concern about the escalation of political violence and its impact on society.
New Zealand First deputy leader and Minister Shane Jones has condemned the incident, saying such actions pose a danger to the wider community.
“If someone came to my house with a crowbar and smashed the window, they’d be getting a visit from one of my three sons, who ranged between the height of six foot three and the weight of 155 kg. So I’ll just leave that answer right there. The reality is that people’s passions are highly stirred up, but they’ve done their cause a great deal of harm,” says Jones.
He says while political debate is vital, violence only undermines legitimate causes and threatens the fabric of society.
“I hope that Winston’s Mrs. and the dog have survived. I think, however, the people are going to have to now pull back, because this type of random, violent activity, it soon elicits a response, and that’s how society begins to unravel,” says Jones.
Police have charged a 29-year-old in connection with the incident after he handed himself in last night.
He is due to appear in the Auckland District Court on Friday.
