Written statement from Green Party MP Benjamin Doyle (they, them):
“Over the past months, I have been on a journey of healing. During this time, I have come to the realisation that I cannot complete this journey while in Parliament.
“After having baseless and violent accusations thrown at me, and an onslaught of hate, vitriol and threats of real-world violence directed at me and my whānau, I have decided to move on from Parliament.
“Whānau is the most precious thing in the world. From the start, I have always said my child is my priority. My tamaiti asked me to leave Parliament, and I am leaving for them and for my own wellbeing.
“I leave Parliament with pride, and that is something nobody can take away from me. It was a pleasure and a privilege to represent and work for the communities that carried me here. I am so grateful for their trust and guidance.
“I am leaving Parliament, I am not disappearing. I will continue to fight for people and planet, just not from inside this House.
“Our politics, our democracy and our Parliament should be a place for everyone. My time here has shown that we clearly still have work to do. I hope this experience is something that we can all learn and grow from,” says Benjamin Doyle.
Notes to Editors:
- Benjamin Doyle’s last day as an MP will be October 3rd.They are seeking to make their valedictory speech on the 18th of September.