Waikato beneficiary says Mahuta in denial as to reality of situation
Wednesday, 31 August 2000, 13:25 a.m. Press Release:
Geo-Demo Group

Waikato beneficiaries who in 1995 sought the intervention of the High Court to prevent the signing of the Waikato Raupatu Settlement, continue to speak out against Sir Robert Mahuta whose persistent actions to regain control of the tribe's finances show that he remains in denial of what the people want.

A Waikato beneficiary Diana Christine Webster, of Wellington, said today that her cousin's actions, issuing a letter to over 30 academics and leaders, claiming "Te Kaumarua [Executive] was attacking the mana of the Maori Queen and the Kingitanga", was a nonsense!.

The letter seeks support and asks them to prepare affidavits in support of the Maori Queen's mana and to deflect what he calls "the executive interference of the proper affairs of the tribe."

"Sir Robert's very action [sending a letter asking outsiders to interfere with an internal process, not only publicly challenges the Court's ruling, it can also be interpreted as a flagrant abuse of the High Court injunction granted by Justice Grant Hammond," says Ms Webster.

Ms Webster says "Sir Robert can get all the affidavits he wishes and can brag about the numbers of people he claims have signed supporting his position. What I want, and I am sure 45,999 other beneficiaries want, is factual information as to where the settlements monies have gone since the 1995 signing. Let him brag about that issue!"

"Posturing tactics such as Sir Robert's recent remarks shows he remains in denial and will continue to harm the genuine work of Tekaumarua in its efforts to bring about a solution in order for Waikato and its people to advance and plan for a progressive future", said Ms Webster.

ENDS.

For further information:

Ms D C WEBSTER
PO Box 10804
WELLINGTON

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