New Zealand's Chief Electoral Officer has referred the Exclusive Brethren pre-election pamphlet drop to the police for investigation, after ruling that the anonymous campaign against left-wing parties "appears to promote the Party vote for National". The pamphlets attacked left-wing parties, and specifically targeted the Greens, using moral scare tactics and homophobia. One pamphlet warned that should the Green Party become part of government, it would "create rainbow communities". National Party leader Don Brash initially denied any knowledge of the Brethren campaign, but later admitted Church members had told him they planned to distribute some leaflets. Green Party co-leader Rod Donald has welcomed the investigation, calling it a moral victory, and saying "I believe it cost us a seat in parliament, so I remain very angry that this so-called Christian organisation was able to distribute lies and half-truths with impunity during the campaign." Under the Electoral Act, political advertising must be authorised by the candidate or party it supports, with valid names and addresses. The Brethren pamphlets failed to disclose their true origin, and one gave a false address. Should the police prosecute, the Exclusive Brethren will face a $3000 fine for the $500,000 campaign.
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Wednesday, 26th October 2005 - 12:00pm