New Zealand First is asking the new Speaker, Gerry Brownlee, to clarify the rules after Te Pāti Māori members took a unique approach to their swearing-in at Parliament. The MPs added extra oaths and used a different name for King Charles in the Māori language. David Wilson, Clerk of the House, did not object to the swearing-in, stating there are no specific legal requirements for what members can do before or after their affirmation.
New Zealand First Minister Shane Jones initially had no issue with the swearing-in but later expressed concern about the potential for future “theatrical behaviour”. He has written to Speaker Brownlee asking him to clearly state his expectations for decorum and conduct in the house.
Winston Peters, leader of New Zealand First, accused Te Pāti Māori of showing disrespect for Parliament with their oath-taking approach. He argued that they should follow the same procedures as everyone else.
Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi defended their approach, stating that the word they used for ‘Charles’ is a common term in their dialect. The party’s other co-leader, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, suggested that Jones was overly focused on their actions.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon did not comment on the issue, stating that it was a decision for the Speaker and the House.
