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Harawira party 'still has wings', he may not lead it


Harawira party still on the table but he won't necessarily lead it.

NZPA and NBR staff
Mon, 04 Apr 2011

Independent MP Hone Harawira says his proposed political party "still has wings" following a meeting with his electorate committee on Sunday.

Mr Harawira last month held a series of meetings around the country to gather support for a new party, and yesterday he met his Tai Tokerau electorate in Whangarei to discuss it.

"I was there to report back on trips I've been making around the country in the last week, to Rotorua, Gisborne, Palmerston North, Invercargill and the East Cape, and collectively there's very strong support for a new party," he said

"The Tai Tokerau is supportive of the idea but we won't be making a final decision and a public announcement until April 30."

Mr Harawira gave even stronger indication the party would go ahead when he said the possible name for the party had been discussed.

"We're going to run an online competition for the name because there's just so much interest from people wanting to come forward with one," he said.

"If they said no, I'd tell you 'it's off' ... it certainly still has wings."

Mr Harawira said the discussions with Tai Tokerau had not looked at what form the party might take, rather the focus had been on what issues had been discussed at the regional hui.

The controversial MP quit the Maori Party in February before its national council ruled on a disciplinary committee recommendation to expel him.

The recommendation was the result of a complaint laid against him by his caucus colleague, Te Ururoa Flavell, over Mr Harawira's outspoken criticism of the party's relationship with the Government and accusations it was supporting anti-Maori policies.

Mr Harawira told Radio New Zealand this morning that he would not necessarily lead any new party.

NZPA and NBR staff
Mon, 04 Apr 2011
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Harawira party 'still has wings', he may not lead it
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