New Zealand: Green Party MP Golriz Ghahraman resigns over shoplifting allegations
An MP in New Zealand has resigned after facing a series of shoplifting allegations.
Golriz Ghahraman, a representative of the Green Party, is accused of stealing from high-end boutiques on at least three occasions.
The Iranian-born politician and human rights lawyer made history as the first refugee in the island nation’s parliament in 2017.
Since being elected, she was under particular pressure due to “continuous threats of sexual violence, physical violence and death threats”, co-party leader, James Shaw, said.
In a statement, Ms Ghahraman did not address the specific allegations but blamed mental health issues and work stress for causing her to behave “completely out of character”.
“I am not trying to excuse my actions, but I do want to explain them,” Ms Ghahraman said.
“The mental health professional I see says my recent behaviour is consistent with recent events giving rise to extreme stress response, and relating to previously unrecognised trauma.
“People should, rightly, expect the highest standards of behaviour from their elected representatives.
“I fell short. I’m sorry.
“It’s not a behaviour I can explain because it’s not rational in any way, and, after medical evaluation, I understand I’m not well.”
Police investigating – as Green leaders support resignation
The politician is said to have shoplifted from Scotties Boutique in Ponsonby, Auckland, and Cre8iveworkz in New Zealand’s capital, Wellington.
New Zealand Police said in a statement that they were investigating the alleged incident at Scotties Boutique, which happened in December, but did not give further details.
They did not confirm the incident involved Ms Ghahraman.
An incident on 23 December last year is being investigated, according to the New Zealand Herald.
The outgoing MP has thanked staff at the Scotties store for their “kindness and empathy”.
In a joint statement, Mr Shaw and co-leader, Marama Davidson, backed Ms Ghahraman’s decision to step down.
“Green MPs are expected to maintain high standards of public behaviour,” they said.
“It is clear to us that Ms Ghahraman is in a state of extreme distress. She has taken responsibility and apologised.
“We support the decision she has made to resign.”