Democracy Action Welcomes New Plymouth Result

Democracy Action is applauding the decision made by the citizens of New Plymouth in decisively rejecting the proposal to introduce Maori ward seats for the Council. Chairman of Democracy Action, Lee Short, says:

“This was a highly contentious proposal, and if introduced would have established two classes of citizen in New Plymouth. Mayor Andrew Judd, who has championed the introduction of Maori ward seats, has been sent a clear message.”

“Race based seats are a divisive construct and a fundamental breach of the principle of equality before the law.”

“The citizens of New Plymouth deserve better from their Mayor, who tried to introduce this new arrangement without a mandate. The Mayor’s bizarre comments in response to the outcome of the referendum shows further contempt for the fundamental principles of democracy. He should either accept the decision of the people, and stop wasting ratepayer resources on running off to the UN, or stand aside as the Mayor of New Plymouth.”

ENDS

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