Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi criticized the Prime Minister for potentially not attending Waitangi Day, suggesting it would demonstrate a lack of courage. Waititi expressed disagreement with Labour’s safety concerns regarding Māori spaces, stating that such rhetoric is unhelpful. Meanwhile, National Party leader Christopher Luxon has yet to confirm his attendance, prompting comments from Labour’s Chris Hipkins and Willie Jackson regarding the importance of facing controversial issues and safety concerns.
Waititi emphasized the need for politicians to show up and address issues, dismissing claims of safety risks in Māori spaces. He highlighted a recent incident involving a racist encounter faced by a party member at a fuel station as evidence of emboldened behavior due to government policies. Waititi urged the Prime Minister to attend Waitangi, stating that avoiding it would demonstrate a lack of leadership.
While Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka confirmed his attendance, he deferred the Prime Minister’s decision to him. Potaka expressed confidence in the upcoming discussions at Waitangi and praised the recent peaceful hīkoi to Parliament. Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick reiterated the importance of politicians upholding their commitments to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
The article ends with a call to action for the Prime Minister to address the situation, highlighting the significance of engaging with Māori communities and honoring treaty principles.
