Michael Laws will contest the Waitaki electorate for New Zealand First in the upcoming November election, according to a statement from party leader Winston Peters. The former National MP and current Otago Regional Councillor intends to unseat the incumbent National Party representative, Miles Anderson, bringing what Peters describes as a wealth of experience to the team.
Why is Michael Laws running in Waitaki?
New Zealand First leader Winston Peters announced the candidacy this morning, stating that Laws will be an “asset” to the party. According to Peters, Laws brings “a wealth of experience, skills, and leadership to parliament.” The campaign will focus on the Waitaki electorate, where Laws aims to challenge the sitting National MP, Miles Anderson.
What is Michael Laws’ political history?
Laws has a long history in New Zealand politics and media. He previously served two terms as the National Party MP for Hawke’s Bay between 1990 and 1996. In 1996, he defected to New Zealand First and subsequently managed the party’s campaign for that year’s election.
His parliamentary career ended following the “Antoinette Beck Affair.” While serving as a councillor, Laws organized a Napier City Council poll. The poll was signed by a fictitious individual named Antoinette Beck, who was later revealed to be his parliamentary secretary. Additionally, the contract for that poll had been awarded to a company owned by Laws’ wife.
Since his time in Parliament, Laws has held several other public roles, including:
- Mayor of Whanganui: Served from 2004 to 2010.
- Councillor: Served from 2013 to 2014.
- Otago Regional Councillor: His current position.
- Broadcaster: He is currently a host for the media outlet The Platform.
What could happen next in the Waitaki electorate?
Laws’ entry into the race may create a direct challenge to the National Party’s hold on the Waitaki electorate. His return to the political stage could serve as a significant test of his ability to reclaim a seat in Parliament following his previous resignation. The November election will likely see a focused contest between the New Zealand First candidate and the incumbent, Miles Anderson.
