Maori Party Set to go Full Steam Ahead
Pem Bird, President:
President of the Maori Party, Pem Bird, has taken the unusual step of issuing a release to rectify mis-information about
the Maori Party voting strategy.
(Annette Sykes issued a release this morning promoting the Mana Party as the party of the left; and claiming that the
Maori Party had told Waiariki voters to give their party vote to Mana”.)
“Basically it’s nonsense” responded Mr Bird.
“We have never bought into those labels of western politics - looking left and right is something you do when you cross
the road; when it comes to our political destiny we want to go full steam ahead. The pathway forward is set by the
people determining their own opportunities - and the roadmap we support is one based on kaupapa”.
“Our party position is that the most strategic vote you can take is that if you want kaupapa Maori to be influential in
shaping our future; then it’s simple – give both votes to the Maori Party – the candidate and party vote”.
“And as for Annette claiming the Maori Party has suggested we give away our vote to anyone else –well that’s just
stupid”.
“Electioneering always brings a slice of silliness into the public arena; but no amount of promises; posturing or
outright teka will change the fact that if our people are given the choice between making a noise or making a
difference; it’s real results they choose every time.
“I’m encouraging our people of Waiariki to place one vote with Te Ururoa and one vote with the party that can make a
difference – that party that other parties want to work with – the Maori Party”.
“Te Ururoa has championed every Maori issue in Parliament. He is constructive yet firm about representing the views of
the whanau hapu and iwi in Waiariki. And more than anything, he is a good man who cares passionately for the people”.
“I’m really disappointed that the politics of desperation is rearing its ugly head. People must vote for a safe pair of
hands and the party with the whanau interests at heart”.
Authorised by Fiona Rore, 4 Nikau Place, Murupara