Kapa-Kingi Considers Legal Action Following Party Expulsion

Following her recent expulsion from the Te Pāti Māori party, former MP Kapa-Kingi is contemplating legal action. This decision comes after a turbulent period marked by public disputes involving Kapa-Kingi, fellow expelled MP Tākuta Ferris, and the party’s leadership, which includes co-leaders Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Rawiri Waititi, alongside party president John Tamihere.

In an interview with RNZ’s Morning Report, Kapa-Kingi stated that her legal team has been in discussions regarding the best course of action. Although she acknowledged her expulsion from the party, she expressed her intent to challenge the decision vigorously. “I had to agree I have been expelled, but I will push back against it,” she declared.

The former MP criticized the process leading to her expulsion, deeming it “completely unjust.” She indicated that she believes the leadership structure under Ngarewa-Packer and Waititi must change for her to find a place in the party again. “There has been a breach of the constitution in the way things have been handled,” she added, emphasizing that a legitimate meeting should have involved around 30 party members, yet only a handful were present.

Kapa-Kingi has organized a hui for the upcoming weekend, during which she intends to seek clarity from the party’s executive regarding her expulsion. She remains hopeful about the future of Te Pāti Māori and her role within it, provided there are significant changes in leadership.

During her interview, she articulated her concerns about the legitimacy of the party’s decision-making process. “That’s being challenged,” she stated, highlighting her commitment to defending her position and the democratic principles she believes should govern the party.

As Kapa-Kingi prepares for her hui, the political landscape within Te Pāti Māori continues to evolve. The outcome of her legal considerations and the forthcoming meeting could have substantial implications for both her political career and the party’s future.