Justice system
Sir,—l admire the courage and strength of conviction of Francis Shaw. I urge people who reject his hunger-strike as a cheap political ploy to offer him more respect and take his cause more seriously. The so-called “justice” system in this country has failed Maori people dismally. It is time the rights of Maoris to operate their own system was given Government recognition. Some suggest Shaw is motivated by a belief that “Maori justice” would be more lenient on him. Engaging in a fast of this magnitude, however, does not suggest to me that he is a person looking for easy ways out. He is motivated by a complete loss of faith in the fairness of the pakeha-controlled “justice” system. If the United States can uphold the rights of its indigenous people to operate their own justice system, so can we.— Yours, etc., DAN-MARK GIBSON. July 14, 1989.
[The correspondent’s comment on the United States is rather sweeping. All U.S. citizens are subject to state and federal criminal laws. However, in six of the states or territories tribal ordinances or customs may be given force and effect in the determination of civil actions, provided that such customs or ordinances are consistent with the civil law of the state — Editor.l
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Press, 19 July 1989, Page 18
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210Justice system Press, 19 July 1989, Page 18
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