"Um... we'd still like Hone to stay on board of the waka..." 30 January 2011

A waka named 'Maori Party' is balanced precariously over the edge of a huge waterfall and it is only Maori MP Hone Harawira's weight in the prow that prevents it from going over the edge. Co-leader Pita Sharples who is right at the back looks down and says 'Um we'd still like Hone to stay on board the waka' Also in the waka is President Pem Bird, Maori Party MP Te Ururoa Flavell and Co-leader Tariana Turia. Context - The problem of criticism of his own party by maverick Maori Party MP Hone Harawira. Harawira says that many Maori believe the party has not been able to be an independent voice because of its government partnership and so Mr Harawira is calling for his party to consider its options at the next election. Mr Harawira said that the problem was exacerbated because when the Maori Party was going into coalition with National, the whole world was going into recession and when this happens their choice (National) is to help the rich guy, help the big business, on the basis that they will stay here and keep their business here and everybody will get a job He said the Maori Party needed to get back to supporting basic social policies to help the poor. (Stuff 18 January 2011)

Quantity: 1 digital cartoon(s).