Unprecedented Suspensions Rock New Zealand Parliament: Indigenous Lawmakers Face Backlash

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — June 5, 2025 marked a historic day in New Zealand’s Parliament. Three Indigenous lawmakers from the Te Pati Maori party faced unprecedented suspensions for their actions during a protest last year. The lawmakers performed a haka, a traditional Maori dance, to voice their opposition to a controversial bill. A parliamentary committee found their protest "could have the effect of intimidating a member of the house." The vote resulted in suspensions of 21 days for two MPs and 7 days for another. This is a significant departure from previous precedents, where the longest suspension had been only three days. The video footage clearly shows the lawmakers’ reactions to the decision. One MP, visibly upset, reacted by tearing up a piece of paper. Another MP is seen throwing a hat. The Speaker of the House, Barbara Kuriger, announced the decision with a neutral tone. This event underscores the ongoing tensions between the government and Indigenous communities in New Zealand and raises questions about the balance between freedom of expression and parliamentary decorum. The incident highlights the importance of addressing the concerns of Indigenous communities and finding ways to facilitate constructive dialogue within the parliamentary process.