New Zealand Government Fast-Tracks Treaty Principles Bill

The New Zealand government is fast-tracking the controversial Treaty Principles Bill, set to be introduced in Parliament this Thursday, ahead of a national hīkoi opposing it. Labour Leader Chris Hipkins criticized the bill, claiming it undermines years of legal precedent and accusing the National Party of irresponsibility for allowing it to progress. The Waitangi Tribunal has released a damning interim report, stating that the bill constitutes a serious breach of the Treaty of Waitangi and could end the formal relationship between the Crown and Māori. Co-Leader of Te Pati Māori, Rawiri Waititi, condemned the government's actions as deceitful, while David Seymour faced accusations of leaking information regarding the bill. The Tribunal's reports describe the bill as a politically motivated attack on perceived Māori privilege and warn of profound damage to Māori-Crown relations if enacted. A hīkoi against the bill is planned for next week, reflecting widespread opposition.