Maori face historic election choice – Ngapuhi Leader

Ngapuhi leader and commentator, David Rankin, says that the forthcoming General Election is the most important facing Maori and the country at large in a generation. ‘Unlike previous elections, the difference between the two main parties is vivid’, says Mr. Rankin. “I have had dozens of people come to see me to talk about the political choices they are grappling with, and one thing is clear: the outcome of this election will affect Maori for generations’.

Of particular concern to Mr. Rankin is the possibility of the closure of the Waitangi Tribunal, the threat to the foreshore and seabed, and the growing problem of race relations.

‘I have always avoided telling people who to vote for’, says Mr Rankin, ‘but what I do urge Maori to do in this election is to not think about themselves when they vote, but about their children, and their children’s children, and then ask themselves what sort of country do they want. This, I believe, is what should determine how Maori vote’.

Mr. Rankin – the direct descendent of Hone Heke – is not a member of any political party, but has been asked top be a key note speaker at various political meetings in the lead-up to the election.

ENDS

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