New Zealand has one of the world's longest-serving female leaders

[Ellen Forradalom]

Helen Clark.

Polls are open in NZ right now. She faces a stiff challenge for re-election.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7717014.stm

[ismnotwasm]

1. Looks like she lost

I haven't read about the Maori people in a while this is sadly interesting;

"Since the country introduced proportional voting in 1996, neither of the big parties has won an outright majority and they have always relied on the support of minor parties.
Clark: 'I accept responsibility for the result'
The new government will seek the backing of the Maori Party, formed before the 2005 election to give an authentic voice to indigenous people.
However, Mr Key said his party was "diametrically opposed" to some of its policies, and Maori leader Tariana Turia said there would be hard bargaining involved in any deal.

Among Maori demands are the repeal of a law preventing Maoris from claiming rights to the foreshore and seabed, and greater control over government spending on indigenous programmes to prevent"


One of my great personal sadnesses is watching Aboriginal people trying to hold on to the smallest portion of what they once had, and being defeated again and again.

Interesting Government New Zealand has though.

[Ellen Forradalom]

2. At least the Maoris are organized and able to fight politically

That's something..if not necessarily enough.