May 09, 2023
Parliamentary process fails to silence tīkanga
Te Pāti Māori Co-Leaders Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Rawiri Waititi were able to whakawaatea the debating chamber at Parliament allowing Meka Whaitiri to cross the floor from Government to opposition before being asked to leave the House.
Approval to allow tīkanga to take place was given after all party leaders were personally approached by Rawiri Waititi. But Speaker Adrian Rurawhe says a Party subsequently rescinded its approval.
Inspite of this Te Pāti Māori continued the whakawaatea, with a large ope in the Gallery supporting with haka tautoko.
Speaker Adrian Rurawhe then asked Co-Leaders Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Rawiri Waititi to leave the chamber.
Rawiri Waititi gave up his seat in the House to Meka Whaitiri who carried their proxy vote and asked questions on behalf of Te Pāti Māori.
The audio of the whakawaatea was not publicly recorded. But Rawiri Waititi says that was less important than the carrying out of cultural and customary duties.