Maori-Electorate
The Maori-Electorate system in New Zealand is a unique aspect of the country's electoral politics, designed specifically to ensure representation of the Maori People in the national parliament.
History
The origins of the Maori-Electorate trace back to the 19th century. Here are key historical developments:
- 1867: The New Zealand Parliament passed the Maori Representation Act, establishing four seats specifically for Maori representation. This was a response to increasing Maori disenfranchisement and a desire to include Maori voices in national politics.
- 1893: The franchise was extended to all Maori men over 21, but Maori women gained the vote in 1893, the same year as European women, making New Zealand the first self-governing country to grant women the vote.
- 1975: The Maori Affairs Act introduced changes allowing Maori to choose whether they wanted to be on the Maori roll or the general roll, which was a significant shift towards voluntary enrollment.
- 1993: With the introduction of the Mixed-Member Proportional Representation System (MMP), the number of Maori seats became proportional to the number of Maori on the Maori roll, rather than fixed at four.
Function and Structure
The Maori-Electorate operates under the following principles:
- Maori voters can choose to be on either the Maori roll or the general roll, which determines whether they vote in a Maori electorate or a general electorate.
- The number of Maori seats in the New Zealand Parliament is determined by the proportion of voters on the Maori roll. This number is recalculated every five years based on the census.
- These electorates are not geographically defined but are based on the distribution of Maori voters across the country.
Political Impact
The Maori-Electorate has had a profound impact on New Zealand politics:
- It has provided a platform for Maori issues to be directly addressed in parliament.
- It has influenced policy-making, particularly in areas like land rights, health, education, and cultural preservation.
- Maori MPs often play crucial roles in coalition governments, giving Maori representation significant leverage in policy decisions.
Controversy and Debate
The system has not been without its critics:
- Some argue that it leads to racial division within the political system.
- There have been calls for a single electoral roll where race does not determine voting rights, promoting a 'one person, one vote' system.
- Others defend the system, highlighting its role in acknowledging and addressing the unique historical and contemporary issues faced by Maori.
Sources
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