RSA Leadership Tensions Rise Over Controversial Honour Nominations

The conflict within the Returned and Services Association (RSA) has intensified as a faction attempts to prevent two prominent members from receiving New Zealand Royal Honours. This internal struggle has emerged following a letter from Stan Hansen, former president of the Canterbury District RSA, urging the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) to reject nominations for Martyn Dunne and Jocelyn Faul.

In his correspondence, Hansen described the nominations as inappropriate, calling for Dunne, a retired Major General and former RSA board member, and current board member Faul to be excluded from consideration for the prestigious accolades. His email has generated significant backlash from senior RSA officials, who have characterized the action as an unwarranted attack on fellow members.

Dunne, who has held various leadership roles beyond his military career, including positions in diplomacy and public service, has been a respected figure within the RSA. His achievements and contributions to the community have long been recognized, making Hansen’s intervention particularly controversial.

RSA Leadership Responds to Allegations

In response to Hansen’s letter, the leadership of the RSA expressed disappointment over the divisive move. They emphasized the importance of unity within the organization and criticized the attempt to block the nominations of respected leaders. The RSA’s top brass reiterated that all members should be supported in their contributions rather than facing opposition from within.

This internal conflict raises questions about the future of the RSA, an organization dedicated to advocating for the welfare of veterans and serving members of the armed forces. As tensions escalate, the leadership must navigate this challenge while maintaining the integrity and mission of the RSA.

The outcome of this dispute may have lasting implications for the association, as well as for Dunne and Faul, whose nominations for the New Zealand Royal Honours now hang in the balance. The DPMC has not yet issued a statement regarding Hansen’s request, leaving many to speculate about the potential ramifications for all parties involved.

As the situation develops, the broader RSA community will be watching closely to see how leadership addresses these internal divisions and whether they can restore harmony within the ranks.