Parliament's new speaker is likely to come under fire tomorrow as questions intensify about why he blocked a human rights campaigner from speaking.
David Carter says it's "not appropriate" for West Papuan freedom fighter Benny Wenda to hold a public forum at Parliament, but is giving no further explanation.
Mr Wenda arrived in New Zealand today, and was shocked by the decision.
He never thought he'd even make it to New Zealand. He was imprisoned after being arrested by Indonesian forces for promoting the independence of West Papua.
“Indonesia committed genocide toward my people,” he says.
Ten years ago Mr Wenda escaped prison and fled to the United Kingdom, where he was granted political asylum.
Since then he's spoken at parliaments around the world, but Mr Carter blocked a public function to be held at our parliament tomorrow.
The Greens say the Government doesn't want to upset Indonesia. Mr Wenda says he’s never been stopped before.
“This is the first time,” he says.
Mr Wenda's lawyer also happens to be legal advisor to Julian Assange. She's also just arrived in the country, and is outraged.
Mr Wenda's even met British Prime Minister David Cameron, so 3 News asked Prime Minister John Key why he's been blocked here.
“You'll have to ask David Carter,” says Mr Key.
So 3 News asked the Speaker again, and he again refused to front.
Mr Wenda's decided if he can't speak at Parliament, he'll at least turn up to Question Time tomorrow to watch from the public gallery. He's likely to see the Opposition grill the Government about why they're blocking him.
The Speaker's attempt to shut Mr Wenda down has clearly backfired. He's now getting much more publicity.
3 News
source: newshub archive
