The tragedy of MP Kiritapu Allan’s fall from grace will have given many people pause for thought . . . recognising perhaps similar falls of their own or in their family’s lives.
It is sad whenever any of us has a stumble along the rocky path of life, especially so when the person has worked hard on behalf of others and shown much potential.
It is my personal belief that everyone has the right to redeem whatever mistakes they have made — that a caring society does not crucify someone because of their position, and that they are given help to pick themselves up.
We all make mistakes — it is the human way, but no one’s future should be crushed out of them for a single failing or for falling short in the ways many people do.
In the case of Ms Allan, it is regrettable that the pressures of Parliament, a high public profile and personal troubles have combined for her to lose her judgement (temporarily one would hope) and commit errors.
Should she be forever marked as a result of her fall? I don’t think so. Should she be given the chance to return in the future and serve the public in some way, especially her home rohe? I should hope so.
If others agree with my sentiments, then perhaps we of Tairāwhiti should send a collective letter to Parliament indicating our awhi for Ms Allan.
“Kia kaha, Kiri!”
Roger Handford
(non-partisan)
