Is there a problem with how media cover race issues? A recent TV programme featured a Northland man, Wikatana Popata, talking about a hikoi in protest about the Government’s proposed asset sales last month. Popata made the most of his air time and said he had “had enough of Pakeha”, and wanted the Treaty of Waitangi thrown out so Māori could rule the country.
This led to more than two thousand online responses on Close Up’s Facebook page, with most upset by the comments: “I am embarrassed about the arrogance and ignorance of Popata”, “He should focus his anger on a better New Zealand of one people”, and “I am totally bored with this victim mentality.” Others took issue about whether Popata should have been given any air time at all.
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