Statement by Vi Hausia following decision in the Pteition of Enquiry into the Papatoetoe Subdivision election

Today, the Court has ruled in favour of democracy and electoral integrity. The Papatoetoe Subdivision election for the Otara-Papatoetoe Local Board has been declared void, and a new election ordered.

This decision is a reminder that democracy is not a given; it is a privilege, and it is our collective responsibility to protect and maintain it.

This Petition of Inquiry was about safeguarding confidence in our local electoral process and responding to genuine concerns raised and experienced by the Papatoetoe community. The strength of a democracy is measured not when it works, but when it is tested.

Unfortunately, Papatoetoe was treated as a safe haven to test our democracy, to exploit known weaknesses in the postal voting system and, in doing so, undermining the voices of our community.

I acknowledge the residents who came forward, my family, my Labour Electorate Committee and members, the Papatoetoe candidates who supported this process, and my legal team. It took courage to speak up, and that courage made this outcome possible.

Whilst the battle has been won, the war to strengthen our democracy is not over. The postal ballot voting system must end. It is a stain on our democracy, and if this event is not enough to compel change, then the erosion of public trust will be a conscious and avoidable choice.

For now, I wish all residents of Papatoetoe and across Aotearoa New Zealand a safe and Merry Christmas, and a prosperous New Year.