Comments sought on Mana Party name (Waatea)

Mana Party president Matt McCarten says Hone Harawira will be standing under the party’s banner in the Te Tai Tokerau by-election, even if the party is not formally registered in time.

Mana Party website: http://manaparty.org.nz/

The Electoral Commission today opened a two-week period for comment on the name, after which the application will be considered by the commission.

Mr McCarten says he’s hopes the process can be completed by the June 25 polling date.

�Even if the party is not registered, Hone can stand as a Mana candidate on the basis of the application has been received,� he says.

Mr McCarten says as the leader of a registered party, if he is reelected Hone Harawira would get a front bench seat in parliament and the right to speak on all topics.

Meanwhile, the Maori Party interviewed its three prospective Te Tai Tokerau candidates last night, and will announce its choice today.

http://www.waatea603am.co.nz/News/2011/Comments-sought-on-Mana-Party-name-/default.aspx