Green Party MP Golriz Ghahraman

PHOTO: Green Party MP Golriz Ghahraman. NEWSHUB

Embattled Green Party MP Golriz Ghahraman has stepped down following three accusations of shoplifting. In a statement released on Tuesday, she expressed her intention to exit politics and explore alternative avenues for contributing to positive change globally. This marks her first public response since the initial allegation surfaced last week.

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Ghahraman, who entered the political arena in 2017, temporarily relinquished her portfolios last week amidst claims that she shoplifted from Scotties in Ponsonby, Auckland, on December 23. Subsequently, two more allegations emerged, one at Scotties and another at Cre8iveworx in Wellington.

Acknowledging the honor of serving as an MP, Ghahraman highlighted her advocacy work in human rights, foreign affairs, and electoral law improvements. However, she attributed her recent actions to severe stress affecting her mental health, leading her to behave out of character.

 

Expressing remorse, Ghahraman stated that her conduct fell short of the expected standards for elected representatives. She emphasized her inability to rationalize her actions but disclosed that a medical evaluation indicated her current mental health struggles. She took full responsibility for her regrettable actions and apologized for letting down many people.

Having entered Parliament through the Greens’ list, Ghahraman held various portfolios, including justice, defence, and ethnic communities. Despite her resignation, she pledged to continue supporting and advocating for communities that had backed her over the years.

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In a joint statement, Greens co-leaders Marama Davidson and James Shaw acknowledged Ghahraman’s tireless efforts on behalf of her communities. They expressed support for her decision to resign, recognizing her state of extreme distress and accepting her responsibility and apology.

SOURCE: NEWSHUB