Teina Pora needs Action Now - Maori Party
Saturday 3
August 2013
Teina Pora needs Action Now - Maori Party
Māori Party Co-leader, Te Ururoa Flavell, has praised the Police Association for turning the heat up and calling for an independent inquiry into the circumstances around the conviction of Teina Pora, saying it highlights the seriousness of the issue, and the urgent need for action.
"We commend those police officers who came
forward with their misgivings over Mr. Pora's conviction. It
takes courage to stand up to their own institution, and that
is exactly what is required in order to see true justice
delivered in New Zealand."
"There are serious
questions over the way the investigators handled this case,
and we need to be able to examine what went on, but while
that is happening we also need to ensure that Mr. Pora has
his case reheard."
"Mr. Pora needs action
now."
“The Māori Party first raised the issue in
March this year, supporting the call to reopen the case,
following information made public by TV3’s 3rd Degree
programme."
"We see Teina Pora as a face for racial
discrimination in the justice system. His story resonated
with us, because we know the challenges our kids face once
they are in that system."
"While we were pleased with
the response from Minister Collins in April that she would
give careful consideration to an application for the Royal
Prerogative of Mercy; we are mindful that Mr. Pora has spent
21 years in prison waiting for justice."
"We will be demanding from the Minister of Justice and Prime Minister that this case be given urgent consideration. No further delays can be tolerated".
ends