The next election is right around the corner, with the implosion of Te Pati Maori and now the position Winston Peters has taken on the Regulatory Standards Bill, Willie Jackson has a korero with Dale Husband. Labour MP Willie Jackson has been active in recent weeks, recently commenting on NZ First leader Winston Peters, the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) amendment bill, and the internal turmoil within Te Pāti Māori – and there is more:
Relationship with Winston Peters: Jackson has suggested that Winston Peters could work with Labour leader Chris Hipkins to form a future coalition, despite Peters’ public statements that he would “never trust” Hipkins. Jackson believes Peters can deal with anyone and that such a coalition is possible.
- Criticism of Government Legislation: Jackson strongly criticized the government’s passing of the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) amendment bill, calling it a “disgraceful” and “rotten” attack on Māori rights and accusing the government of “racist disenfranchisement” through proposed voting changes. He also spoke against the government’s actions regarding pay equity legislation, calling it an “attack on women”.
- Te Pāti Māori Turmoil: Jackson commented on the recent expulsion of two MPs from Te Pāti Māori (Mariameno Kapa-Kingi and Tākuta Ferris), stating he is “absolutely” comfortable if the party doesn’t return to Parliament after the next election and ruling out the expelled MPs joining the Labour Party. He believes a split within the party is “inevitable”.
- Political Panels: He continues to participate in political panels, where he has had fiery exchanges with other politicians and media hosts, including accusing a broadcaster of “trying to write off all Māori” during a discussion on the Te Tiriti-related hīkoi.
- Netball NZ Funding: Jackson has urged the Sport Minister to freeze Netball New Zealand’s funding until issues with the treatment of coach Dame Noeline Taurua are resolved, arguing that the board should be removed if she is not reinstated.
