Peace Activists Occupy Labour Party Offices Across Aotearoa

Activists are occupying Labour MP offices across the country today to urge the government to take immediate action on the Manus Island refugee crisis.

In a demonstration of solidarity for the men trapped on Manus Island, activists have today occupied Jacinda Ardern’s office in Auckland to make an urgent demand for Jacinda Ardern to bring all the Manus Island refugees to Aotearoa immediately.

“Jacinda Ardern needs to talk directly to the Papua New Guinea government to arrange for all the Manus Island refugees to be brought to New Zealand. This week Papua New Guinea government officials have been destroying the water supplies, and the refugees are reaching their 17th day without water, power, food and essential medication.” said Auckland Peace Action member Hamish Noonan.

“The deal to take 150 refugees is a toxic deal left over from the John Key government, which had Australia offering to detain people wanting to come to New Zealand in return. The Labour government is now using delaying tactics and needs to accept all the refugees on Manus Island, not just 150.”

“We have been in contact with many of the refugees on Manus Island. 20 of the refugees are gay and have been fleeing persecution, but are being held in a country where homosexuality is illegal and can lead to lengthy prison terms. They need to be evacuated to safety as soon as possible.”

“We call on Jacinda Ardern to condemn Australia’s cruel, inhumane and illegal treatment of asylum seekers. Auckland Peace Action calls for a fair and due process for people seeking asylum in the Pacific.”

There will be a rally in Aotea Square this Sunday at 1pm to support the Manus Island refugees.

ENDS

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