Record Suspensions for Māori MPs After Parliament Haka Protest

New Zealand Māori MPs Suspended After Haka Protest WELLINGTON, New Zealand – Three members of the Māori Party, a political party representing the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand, have been suspended from Parliament following a protest involving a haka, a traditional Māori war dance. The incident took place during a parliamentary session in November. The suspensions, ranging from seven to 21 days, mark a record in New Zealand parliamentary history. The video shows the MPs performing the haka, striding across the floor of the House towards their opponents. Deputy Speaker Barbara Kuriger stated, "The ayes are 68, the noes are 53. The question is agreed to. Rawiri Waititi, therefore, is suspended from the service of the House for 21 days, starting from today." The MPs were protesting a bill perceived as detrimental to indigenous rights. While the committee stated that the suspension wasn't solely for the haka, but also for their actions during the performance, the incident has sparked debate about the role of cultural expression in political protest. The previous record for a parliamentary suspension was three days. This event highlights the ongoing tension surrounding indigenous rights and political representation in New Zealand.