Sexist comments mar New Zealand election campaign final days

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 4 Nov, 17:11 · Archive

New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Luxon has barred a right-wing candidate from government roles after sexist comments emerged in the final days of the election campaign. Michael Laws, a broadcaster and former National MP now standing as an NZ First candidate, made misogynistic remarks about a rival female candidate from the Opportunity party on a fringe right-wing online talk show. He commented on her attire, make-up and demeanour, and made sexual innuendos, saying 'Must be hell dating people like that, just quietly. Can you imagine what it's like post-sex?'

The comments drew swift condemnation from several other parties. Opportunity leader Qiulae Wong ruled out partnering with NZ First without a full apology from Laws. Laws offered a conditional apology, saying his comments were 'intended to be mischievously humorous' and that 'if people are offended, I apologise'. He said he had been reprimanded by party leader Winston Peters. Prime Minister Luxon called the remarks 'stupid' and excluded Laws from roles in government, specifically ruling him out of his stated goal to become broadcasting minister.

The election concludes on 7 November. More than one million New Zealand voters have already cast ballots in what is described as a close contest. A million more voters are expected to watch the final multi-party debate on TVNZ on Thursday night. Luxon is seeking a second term for his right-leaning coalition of the National party, supported by ACT and NZ First.

How it is being reported

• Sexist sledge mars final days of New Zealand campaignNew Zealand's election campaign is entering its final 48 hours, including a crunch multi-party debate.The West Australian · 4 Nov, 16:35
• Sexist sledge mars final days of New Zealand campaignNew Zealand's election campaign is entering its final 48 hours, including a crunch multi-party debate.Perth Now · 4 Nov, 16:35

In this story: Chris Luxon · Michael Laws · Qiulae Wong · Winston Peters · National party · NZ First · Opportunity party · New Zealand

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log