Friday, 6 December 2019, 10:29 am Press Release: Democracy Action
6 DECEMBER 2019 Democracy action welcomes the retention
of referenda for Māori wards
The Minister of
Local Government Nanaia Mahuta has announced changes to prevent
Māori wards being voted down by referendums are off the
table, saying she believes such a change is not possible
within the coalition.
Democracy Action Chair Lee
Short says “We are pleased at the announcement by the
Minister for Local Government that the referendum system for
Māori wards is to stay.”
“The proposal to take away
the opportunity for citizens to decide whether or not they
endorse race-based representation in local government would
give politicians more power at the expense of the people. To
do so would be another nail in the coffin for
democracy.”
Democracy Action understands New Zealand
First had a significant role in this decision, and welcomes
their stand against the undermining of
democracy.”
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