National MP Maureen Pugh Allegedly Assaulted Amid Chaotic Protest in Golden Bay
Golden Bay, New Zealand
– National Party MP Maureen Pugh has allegedly been assaulted during a volatile protest in Golden Bay. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon amidst a fast-paced and tense demonstration. According to police, the protest involved a large group of demonstrators who had gathered near the Golden Bay Recreation and Wildlife Reserve. The demonstrators were protesting the proposed construction of a mountain bike track in the area. As the protest intensified, the crowd surged towards Pugh’s vehicle. Police allege that the MP was pushed and shoved by several protesters, resulting in minor injuries. “We understand that people have strong feelings about this issue, but violence is never acceptable,” said Inspector John Price of the Tasman District Police. “We are currently investigating the incident and will hold those responsible to account.” Pugh was taken to a local hospital for medical attention. She has since been released and is recovering at home. The protest has sparked widespread condemnation from both local residents and political leaders. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has denounced the violence and called for those responsible to be held accountable. “This is unacceptable behavior,” Ardern said. “We all have the right to protest peacefully, but violence has no place in our society.” Police are continuing to monitor the situation in Golden Bay. They are urging protesters to remain calm and to express their concerns peacefully.Maureen Pugh Allegedly Assaulted By ProtestersMaureen Pugh Allegedly Assaulted By Protesters National MP Maureen Pugh was allegedly assaulted after a Tākaka community board meeting on Tuesday afternoon. Golden Bay Community Board president Abbie Langford said the incident involved a man shoving a sign into Pugh’s chest and others yelling at him. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called the incident an “attack” and said the matter had been raised with police. Golden Bay Community Board vice-chairman Grant Knowles said there were around 120 protesters outside the building where the meeting was held, protesting against the coalition government’s fast-track bill. Knowles said after the incident, protesters surrounded Pugh’s car. The man who had allegedly assaulted Pugh stood in front of the car with a sign, waving it and yelling at him very loudly. Langford said there were “a lot of people and a lot of passion” protesting the bill and that they were worried the order could be overturned with the “stroke of a pen.” Knowles said he has been trying to build a good relationship with Pugh and is concerned that the incident could affect that. The incident is being investigated by police. In a statement, a National Party spokesperson said Pugh had been “subjected to intimidating behavior by a number of protesters”. “National respects people’s rights to protest and share their views. However, this should always be done legally and respectfully.” Police said they were called to a report of an assault on Commercial St, Tākaka at around 3pm on Tuesday. No injuries were reported and police are investigating the nature of the incident.