Harawira suspended from Maori Party caucus

Maverick MP Hone Harawira has been suspended from the Maori Party caucus.

In a statement today, Maori Party co-leaders Pita Sharples and Tariana Turia announced the suspension, saying that it was a result of Mr Harawira's behaviour in the party for the past five years.

Fellow Maori Party MP Te Ururoa Flavell laid a formal complaint last month after Mr Harawira wrote in a newspaper column that the party was too wrapped up in its coalition with National and was supporting anti-Maori policies.

A disciplinary committee was due to meet on Wednesday to discuss the complaint.

Mr Harawira sparked further anger in the party at Waitangi celebrations at the weekend, when he gave a "state of the Maori nation" speech an hour before Dr Sharples' own speech.

In his speech Mr Harawira, whose Te Tai Tokerau electorate includes Northland, said the Maori Party should be considering an alliance with the Green Party.

Today, Dr Sharples and Ms Turia said Mr Harawira had failed to show the restraint and discipline expected of a caucus member and that the caucus had no faith or confidence in him.

"It is really unfortunate in the political environment when conflict arises such as we have experienced. In the past we have attempted to follow a kaupapa and tikanga process to no avail. It is for that reason that we looked to the constitution, that Hone helped to shape, to assist us," they said.

"Having no regard for the constitution is one thing. It is quite another to have no regard for the kaupapa and tikanga of the party, and that is really what has brought us to this point.

"The co-leaders said theirs was the only party that included members that spanned across the spectrum, and that they had relied on the foundation principles of the Maori world to guide their behaviour.

"Differences of opinion are fine, but they should be addressed within the group," they said.

"We have always respected the right, and made provision for caucus colleagues to speak out on issues which their constituency presents. We do this, however, always guided by the principle of unity of purpose and direction (kotahitanga).

"No political movement could survive divided within itself, they said.

"We have made this decision with heavy hearts. We are especially mindful of the position of Maori Party supporters in Te Tai Tokerau, who will obviously feel loyal to Mr Harawira; but who are also supportive of our kaupapa Maori and the achievements of the Maori Party in Parliament.

"We want them to know that we have huge respect for the people of Te Tai Tokerau and our commitment to our people remains unwavering".

The suspension would remain in force until further notice.