In New Zealand, parliament was suspended due to a ritual dance by members of parliament

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In New Zealand, MPs interrupted a parliament session by performing a traditional ritual haka dance. In doing so, they protested against a bill that allegedly discriminates against the rights of the indigenous Maori people. This was reported by the BBC.

Parliament was supposed to vote on a bill that provides for a new interpretation of the treaty concluded between the British Crown and the Maori and signed in 1840.

The Treaty of Waitangi defines how both parties agreed to govern the country. Its provisions still shape legislation and policy.

The courts and a separate Maori tribunal have gradually expanded the rights and privileges of Maori. However, some argue that this has led to discrimination against non-native citizens.

In particular, Maori and their supporters argue that the bill undermines the rights of the indigenous population, which makes up about 20% of the country's population.

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Parliament was forced to suspend its work. This was preceded by an act of protest by 22-year-old MP Hana-Rauhiti Maipi-Clark of the Te Pati Maori party. During the previous sitting, she tore up a copy of the bill and began dancing a traditional haka. After some time, other party members and some visitors to the public gallery joined her.

Hundreds of people then set out on a nine-day march from the north of New Zealand to the capital, Wellington, to protest the bill.

According to law enforcement, 10,000 people marched through Rotorua. It is 450 km north of Wellington. Some of the protesters chanted while waving the Maori flag.

Next Tuesday, the march will arrive in Wellington, where tens of thousands of citizens are expected to gather for a large rally.

Prepared by: Sergey Daga