New Zealand MPs Suspended After Haka Protest Against Indigenous Rights Bill

New Zealand Parliament Suspends Maori MPs Following Haka Protest WELLINGTON, New Zealand – Three Maori Members of Parliament (MPs) have been temporarily suspended from their duties following a protest during which they performed a haka in the New Zealand Parliament. The protest, which took place in November 2024, was a demonstration against a controversial bill perceived as limiting the rights of indigenous people. The MPs, whose names have not been released in this report, argued the bill infringed on Maori cultural practices and land rights. "This bill is an attack on our heritage and our future," said one of the MPs involved, according to sources familiar with the protest. The haka, a traditional Maori war dance, was intended as a powerful statement of dissent against the legislation. The incident led to a parliamentary vote on the MPs' suspension. While the exact vote count varies depending on the source, with figures ranging from 68 to 70 in favor and 53 to 55 against, the result was a clear majority in support of the temporary suspension. The decision underscores the deep divisions within the New Zealand Parliament regarding indigenous rights and the ongoing debate surrounding the balance between cultural preservation and legislative action. The suspension serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions surrounding indigenous rights in New Zealand and the passionate advocacy of Maori representatives in Parliament. The event highlights the importance of continued dialogue and efforts to address the concerns of indigenous communities.