Three Maori MPs suspended over 'intimidating' haka

Jun 05, 2025
BBC News
Three Maori MPs suspended over 'intimidating' haka
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Three MPs Suspended after 'Intimidating' Haka Performance

The controversial performance has led to a deeper look into the traditions and interactions of New Zealand's parliament.

Three Maori MPs have been suspended from the New Zealand parliament for allegedly intimidating their colleagues with a haka performance. The incident has sparked a debate over the appropriate conduct in the country's parliament. The debate centers around whether the disciplinary measures were an appropriate response, or whether they were an attempt to suppress the cultural identity of Maori MPs. Many MPs of Maori descent have spoken out, emphasizing that the haka is a traditionally respectful gesture and a part of their cultural heritage, and expressing disappointment that these actions are being portrayed as intimidating.

What Do You Think?

Is this just a case of misinterpretation of cultural traditions, or is it a disruption of parliamentary processes?

Original source: BBC News