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Sikh MP in Kiwi land fails to inspire
WSN Bureau

AUKLAND:  Despite being embroiled in some kind of immigrant controversy and a section of the Sikh and Asian populace skeptical about his prospects, National's Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi has been elected Member Parliament from the Manuku East constituency, though he did concede substantial number of votes to his rival in a keenly fought contest.

Both the main political parties had fielded Asian candidates seeing the growing presence and influence of Asian populations in the country.

While the indigenous Maori peoples will see comparatively less representation this year, there will be one Sikh, one Korean and two Chinese-origin members of Parliament, the new New Zealand Parliament will be the most ethnically diverse in its history.

Pansy Wong, who won from Botany is likely to be the first Asian minister, may be, in charge of ethnic affairs.

Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi was given a high standing by his party and the prime ministerial candidate Mr. John Key stood by him, when the opposition tried to embroil him in an immigration scam.  NZ's new Prime Minister, John Key came out and said that "if Mr. Bakshi denies these allegations then I have no reason to not believe him". As the National Party has won the elections, he may land up with a ministerial position, though it may be difficult as he is first time Member Parliament. 

Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi did visit Gurdwaras in Auckland after his victory but did not make any dramatic announcements. A fractured and skeptical Sikh community in New Zealand has not adequately rejoiced at Mr. Bakshi’s victory so far and seems to have no hopes that the incumbent MP would look after community interests.

12 November 2008
 

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