Hone Harawira won't stand in Northland

  • Breaking
  • 04/02/2015

Mana Party leader Hone Harawira has ruled himself out of the competition for Northland's seat, but says someone from Mana may run.

Mr Harawira made his first public appearance at Te Tii Marae in Waitangi today after last year's disappointing election result saw him out of Parliament.

Mr Harawira told reporters National knew of former Northland MP Mike Sabin's personal issues before the September 2014 election - despite Prime Minister John Key saying he only became aware in December.

Labour leader Andrew Little has accused National of lying, saying he alerted the party of Mr Sabin's troubles in late November.

Mr Sabin recently resigned. It's believed he is involved in a police investigation.

"National has a way of protecting their own," Mr Harawira said.

When asked whether he would consider running for Northland MP, Mr Harawira said no.

"I won't be standing in this Northland seat.

"It is possible that someone from Mana will, but it won't be me."

Mr Harawira said he's looking to start a couple of projects in Northland, but wouldn't elaborate. 

He also said he won't rule out standing for Parliament again, as he believes there needs to be an activist like himself present.

"Is there a champion for the poor and dispossessed [in Parliament]?" he asked.

Mr Harawira also said he has someone in mind to run for Northland, but has yet to approach him.

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source: newshub archive