He says it seems a National Party advocate has taken advantage of the community's deprivation.

"Congregation members are being approached by a person claiming to represent National who is convincing them to sign forms they don't fully comprehend.

"They are then being sent letters addressed to them personally saying they are now members of National and must now vote for them"

Sio said he has been urged by a junior pastor of the church involved - who wishes to remain anonymous - to warn Pasifika people about this.

Sio's allegation is disputed by Minister of Pacific Island Affairs, Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, who says Labour has to produce one of these letters to back up its claim. he said that the National Party did not send out letters inviting people to join the party.

Source

• Scoop
• NewstalkZB
• Radio Australia
• Image: thedailyblog