Meka Whaitiri seems set to remain in Parliament acting as an independent MP, somehow avoiding the so-called “waka jumping” law.
Whaitiri this morning announced she was resigning from the Labour Party to join Te Pāti Māori – a move which, if formally notified to the Speaker of the House – would appear to trigger the Electoral (Integrity) Amendment Act.
However, Speaker Adrian Rurawhe has informed Parliament he has not received a letter to that effect – despite Whaitiri’s public claim otherwise.
“This morning, I have officially notified the Speaker that I have resigned from the Labour Party and am joining Te Pāti Māori, effective immediately,” she said.
Asked by reporters if it meant she would automatically give up her seat, Whaitiri initially said “no”, but Te Pāti Māori president John Tamihere interrupted her, saying “no, no I’ll answer the constitutional issues”.
Rurawhe said he had not received any letter of resignation – signed or unsigned – but a message was sent by email.
Credit: radionz.co.nz
