Lance O’Sullivan to stand for the Maori Party in 2020

The Herald reports:

Former Rotorua doctor Dr Lance O’Sullivan has announced he will stand for the Maori Party in the 2020 election – a move which has both surprised and excited co-leader Te Ururoa Flavell.

The 2014 New Zealander of the Year made the announcement during a hui in Rotorua on Sunday afternoon, receiving applause and cheers of support.

He told the crowd he had resisted moving into the political arena but could not resist any longer.

His plans were also relayed in Tauranga when the travelling hui was held at the Te Puna Rugby Club later in the day, with the same support. He was part of a group, which included Maori Party co-leader Te Ururoa Flavell and Mana Party leader Hone Harawira, discussing the future of Maori politics.

 “I made a commitment to stand for the Maori Party in 2020,” Dr O’Sullivan said in Tauranga.

It was not yet confirmed whether Dr O’Sullivan would stand in an electorate or stand as a list member.

This suggests the Maori Party is dead but not buried. Dr O’Sullivan would be a very popular candidate for them.