ACT Party Introduces Controversial Bill to Define Treaty of Waitangi Principles
- The ACT Party introduced the Treaty Principles Bill to Parliament as the nationwide protest march was set to begin.
- The introduced legislation seeks to clarify what the Treaty of Waitangi means in legal terms, with significant implications for Māori rights.
- Opposition groups are organizing protests against the ACT Party's actions, claiming they reflect a broader trend of attacks on Māori sovereignty.
On November 7, 2024, the ACT Party in New Zealand introduced the Treaty Principles Bill, aimed at defining the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, which was signed in 1840 between the British Crown and Māori chiefs. This legislation comes at a time of rising tensions, as a nationwide protest march was organized in response to perceived government actions threatening Māori rights. The legislation has sparked significant controversy, with critics arguing that it undermines the Treaty and could lead to increased anti-Māori sentiment. The bill states that all individuals are equal before the law, suggesting that it would halt any additional funding directed at Māori health and education despite disparities. Opponents fear it would minimize historical rights and protections agreed under the Treaty unless formally settled through historical claims. The bill has garnered limited support and is expected to face hurdles in parliamentary debate amidst ongoing public discontent and a push for Māori rights to be honored.