Reform questions mainly ignored

The response to a political reform survey from the country’s 24 MPs was not unexpected.

The issue of political reform was raised recently by the economic taskforce headed by businessman Tata Crocombe, and it has been taken up by businesswoman Teina Mackenzie who has turned it into a petition.

Only four MPs – prime minister Jim Marurai, minister Robert Wigmore, and opposition MPs Norman George and Teina Bishop – responded to questions on the issue by Cook Islands News by the deadline of Friday, October 6.

Another, Nandi Glassie, responded this week after being overseas, and there were brief responses from Rakahanga MP Piho Rua, Manihiki MP Apii Piho, and Pukapuka-Nassau MP Vai Peua.

Those who did not respond are as follows: Sir Terepai Maoate, Ngamau Munokoa, Tangata Vavia, Kete Ioane, Ngai Tupa, John Tangi, Cassey Eggelton, Tom Marsters, Teariki Heather, William Heather Jnr, Albert Nicholas, Winton Pickering, Pukeiti Pukeiti, Mapu Taia, Junior Maoate, Wilkie Rasmussen.

Cook Islands News invites all of those who have not yet responded to still supply their comments and opinions. Each will be published, and then collated hopefully for a complete range of answers from our 24 MPs, which will be re-published on our website (www.cookislandsnews.com). - MM