Green Party Stands by Māngere Candidate Michel Mulipola Following Controversial Social Media History

Green Party co-leaders stand by Michel Mulipola after past posts surfaced showing him ripping the NZ flag and using derogatory language toward police and ministers.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 29, 2026, 2:59 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Past Activism vs. Candidate Standards Michel Mulipola, a well-known comic book artist and professional wrestler, has come under fire for historical posts that include derogatory references to police and graphic caricatures of coalition ministers. Green co-leader Marama Davidson addressed the controversy, describing Mulipola as a "strong, outspoken advocate" who has used his platform to expose racism and injustice. She noted that while his past as an independent artist involved provocative expression, he is now aware that as a Green candidate, he must adhere to a "different standard of approach and language."

Legal and Political Fallout The surfaced content includes a video of Mulipola ripping the New Zealand flag. Under the Flags, Emblems, and Names Protection Act 1981, destroying the flag with the intent to dishonor it is an offense punishable by a fine of up to $5000. Davidson stated she was not "personally attached" to the flag but recognized the seriousness of the law. The controversy has drawn sharp rebukes from across the political aisle, with NZ First leader Winston Peters calling the situation a "disgrace" and ACT leader David Seymour suggesting that defending such behavior "encourages a path towards political violence."

A History of Provocative Art Mulipola's work has caused political friction before. Two years ago, Labour leader Chris Hipkins ordered then-MP Peeni Henare to remove a repost of Mulipola’s art that depicted David Seymour and Simeon Brown in highly offensive scenarios. Despite this, the Greens maintain that Mulipola’s deep roots in South Auckland and his lived experience as a Samoan creator make him a valuable representative for a community that has been "underserved for decades."

Coalition and Opposition Responses The Prime Minister and other senior leaders have weighed in, focusing on the standards expected of those seeking a seat in Parliament. While Christopher Luxon left the matter to the Green Party, Labour leader Chris Hipkins indicated that while people are allowed to "grow up" and moderate their views, he would have concerns if such language represented currently held beliefs. The ACT Party has been the most vocal in its criticism, arguing that justifying such outbursts on the basis of feeling "disadvantaged" undermines the discipline required for a functioning democratic society.

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