New Zealand’s Controversial Treaty Principles Bill Defeated in Parliament
A controversial bill in New Zealand aiming to redefine the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi was overwhelmingly defeated in Parliament, with 112 votes against and just 11 in favor. The Treaty Principles Bill, introduced by the right-wing ACT Party, sought to clarify the principles of the 1840 treaty between the British Crown and Māori chiefs. However, the proposal sparked fierce opposition from across the political spectrum and sparked nationwide protests, including one with 40,000 participants outside Parliament. Many argued that the bill would undermine Māori rights and create division.
Following its rejection, the chamber erupted in celebration, with politicians from both sides of the house singing a waiata, marking the end of a bitter debate. ACT Party leader David Seymour, who had championed the bill, vowed to continue pushing for similar legislation, saying, "I believe this Bill or something like it will pass one day because there are not good arguments against its contents." However, his stance was met with criticism, including from Labour MP Willie Jackson, who labeled the bill a "right-wing obscenity" and "masquerading as equality."
Opponents celebrated the bill's defeat, with Māori Party MP Hana Rāwhiti Maipi-Clarke declaring, "This bill has been absolutely annihilated." While Seymour's proposal failed, the debate sparked ongoing conversations about how to balance the Treaty principles with New Zealand's evolving society. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who was absent for the vote, had distanced himself from the bill, despite earlier coalition commitments. With the bill's defeat, the nation continues to grapple with the legacy of its founding agreement and the rights of its indigenous people.
