May 29, 2014
Surprise pick gives Internet-Mana momentum
Mana leader Hone Harawira believes the choice of Laila Harre as the leader of the Internet Party will flummox critics of the merger of the two parties.
The former Alliance MP will take the number two spot on the party list, meaning it’s highly likely she will come back to parliament on the combined list vote if Mr Harawira retains Te Tai Tokerau.
Mana president Annette Sykes if third on the list, and a surge in support for the alliance could also give Mana vice president and long time social justice advocate John Minto an MP’s salary.
Mr Harawira says the Internet Mana alliance is invigorating Mana’s support base.
People are lining up to join, including many Pakeha.
"You know it’s something we’ve been working on. It’s taken a long time. It’s not just about the common goals. It’s not just about the candidates. It’s not just about the resources or the support or about my seat. It’s about trying to put together a credible alternative to what is currently being offered out there," he says.
Mr Harawira says he only started talking with the Internet Party because rangatahi were quizzing him about its founder, Kim Dotcom.
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