Posted on 27-11-2002

Auckland CC Anti-democracy

Green MP Nandor Tanczos has spoken up in support of a campaign challenging
a ruling that stops people publicly displaying hoardings of who NOT to vote
for.

Aucklander, Ike Finau, an activist in the campaign to keep the city's water
supply clean and in public ownership, had displayed a hoarding on his fence
drawing attention to the policies and political record of candidates.
Auckland City Council took Ike to court, saying the bylaws outlaw
commercial advertising in a residential area, said Nandor. Incredibly, he
has now been found in contempt of court for refusing to take down his
hoarding. Ike's not telling people to drink Coke or eat Big Macs, though
perhaps if he was the Council would be more sympathetic. What he's being
punished for is telling the truth about politicians.

Apparently it's quite alright for politicians to erect election hoardings
all over the city, making promises they dont keep, but it's a punishable
offence to point out those broken promises. This is obviously an attempt by
the council to shut up its critics, just as they have refused speaking
rights to members of the public when they disagree with council decisions.
It shows an unhealthy disrespect for democracy and the people of Auckland.

Ike and other members of the Water Pressure group have been targeted by
this council for trying to make it accountable to the people.