WESTERN MAORI SEAT

Hawera Star, Volume L, 27 August 1930, Page 5

WESTERN MAORI SEAT

MR. TAKIWAIORA HUPA. UNOFFICI AL~REFCRMERS. Mr. R.. Marumaru, organiser of Te Taite Te Tomos’ (Reform) candidature in Wanganui, stated on Monday that he was not surprised to learn that Mr. Takiwaiora Hupa had been requested to contest the Western Maori seat at the coming by-election, for he knew several leading Maoris of the districts had approached Mr. Hupa- to stand. Air. Marumaru said it was a pity that such a large number of candidates were going to the poll under the colours of Reform. If these unofficial candidates were earnest in their desire to assist the cause of Reform, pay homage to the sacred name of the departed Rangitira, and give full recognition to the work he had accomplished for liis people during his lifetime, they ivould appreciate Taite Te Tomos’ candidature, for his association and loyalty to the Reform Party and Sir Maui dated back to September 11, 1911. Since then Taite had ever been a bosom friend of Sir Maui until Sir Maui had left these shores for foreign lands on May 20, 1930. No other Maori in the West Coast Maori electorate could claim such long association with the party and the late Sir Maui Pomare as Taite Te Tomos. In organising work among the Maori people, and in matters affecting the confiscation of Maori lands, Taite’s help had been most valuable. Mr. Marumaru, continuing, said there was no foundation in the rumour that Taite Te Tomos had decided to stand down in favour of the United Party’s candidate, Air. P. H. Jones. Questioned as to the Ratana movement, Air. Alarumaru .said that though little had been heard from that quarter, there was, however, every possibility of Air. Ratana’,s son contesting the by-election, and there was at present every indication that Mr. Ratana s candidate would head the poll il supporters of the Reform camp failed to decide on one candidate.