Greens' woes deepen as Pasifika members call out party leaders

This is a transcript from Will’s Word on Monday, 29th of July.

It’s not easy being green when your friends are being mean.

Three Green Party Pasifika members have resigned over the Party’s treatment of Darleen Tana.

At the party's AGM, Marie Laufiso, Alofa Aiono, and Vasemaca Tavola said they were resigning over the saga.

The trio argued the co-leaders had intentionally smeared Tana's character, integrity and mana.

They also argue former Green MP Elizabeth Kerekere had been subjected to disgusting treatment, and the Greens had shown disregard for the Pacific team following the death of Fa’anana Efeso Collins.

Now on one side of things I commend this group for coming forward and speaking out against the Party, as it is never an easy thing to do. They showed bravery and courage for taking a stand against what they believed was wrong – and that should never be diminished.

But where they’ve lost me is their stance on supporting Darleen Tana. Migrant exploitation is totally unacceptable, no matter how involved you are or not. It’s still Tana’s husband who is being accused of this, and therefore she should step aside.

Tana may not have been involved but they’re still close to the accusations, and so that’s why I think it’s best to leave.

Like I say though, we shouldn’t diminish the trio for speaking out and taking a stand - I applaud you for doing so, just not when it comes the Darleen Tana situation.

…. That’s Will’s Word…