Māori lawmakers facing suspension for protest haka in New Zealand parliament

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
Three Māori lawmakers may be suspended from New Zealand's parliament for performing a protest haka over a bill to redefine the country's founding document.

Key Points

  • The lawmakers performed a protest haka over a bill redefining New Zealand's founding document
  • The proposed suspensions would be the harshest penalties ever given to lawmakers in New Zealand

Pros

  • Sending a strong message about parliamentary decorum and rules
  • Upholding the sanctity and seriousness of parliamentary proceedings

Cons

  • Potential backlash for perceived stifling of cultural expression
  • Risk of alienating Māori community and exacerbating existing tensions