ACT Leader David Seymour is standing up for common sense and individual rights by challenging the forced use of karakia in public and professional life. Speaking to the press gallery, Seymour made it clear that spirituality should be personal, not political, and certainly not compulsory.
He drew a sharp comparison between today’s cultural expectations and outdated religious rituals. “I don’t expect a priest to show up every time I break ground on a new building,” he said. “We’ve moved past imposing one person’s spirituality on another.” Seymour is right. New Zealand is a secular country, and requiring karakia before starting a project is no different from once needing a priest to offer a blessing. In both cases, it involves forcing spiritual practices onto others, regardless of their beliefs.
Seymour also criticised the unnecessary costs and delays that come with cultural consultations. Referring to the process as “mana whenua consultation,” he pointed out that these requirements do not “make the boat go faster” and instead create more red tape. He is correct. If New Zealand wants to fix its housing and infrastructure problems, ceremonial hurdles should not stand in the way of progress.
When asked when karakia should be used, Seymour’s answer was simple and reasonable. “Whenever the people involved in the situation want to do one.” No coercion, no obligation, no pressure. Just freedom of choice, which is exactly what a democratic and respectful society should offer.
Seymour’s comments were a principled defence of individual liberty. He is saying what many New Zealanders think but are too afraid to voice. Spiritual practices should never be imposed, and David Seymour is right to say so.
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