Green Party Leadership Defends Māngere Candidate Amid Controversy Over Past Online Conduct

New Zealand's Green Party defends Michel Mulipola after past social media posts surface, including flag-tearing and disparaging remarks about government officials.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 30, 2026, 3:07 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Historical Advocacy Versus Parliamentary Standards

Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson addressed the controversy by framing Mulipola’s past actions as part of his identity as a provocative artist and community advocate. Davidson emphasized that Mulipola has spent years using his platform to expose systemic racism and social injustice in South Auckland. While acknowledging that his previous methods such as calling police "pigs" or using profanity against coalition members might not align with the party’s official communication style, she argued that his lived experience as an "independent creator" provided a voice for underserved communities.

Legal and Ethical Implications of Flag Desecration

One of the most significant points of contention involves a video of Mulipola tearing the New Zealand flag. Under current domestic law, damaging the national flag with the intent to dishonor it carries a potential fine of up to $5,000. Davidson admitted she had not personally viewed the footage and stated that such actions do not reflect the Green Party's formal approach. However, she noted a personal lack of attachment to the flag, while clarifying that she had no immediate interest in legislative efforts to remove existing penalties for its desecration.

Sharp Rebukes from Coalition Leaders

The defense offered by the Green leadership has met with stinging criticism from across the political aisle. ACT Party leader David Seymour characterized the Greens' stance as a dangerous endorsement of political hostility. Seymour argued that excusing derogatory language and the destruction of national symbols on the basis of personal "disadvantage" or "anger" undermines civil discipline. Similarly, New Zealand First leader Winston Peters labeled the party’s current direction a "disgrace," suggesting that the Green Party has drifted far from the moderate path established by its former leaders.