The Maori King, Tuheitia Paki, didn't use the word "abdicate" in his speech to the Waikato-Tainui tribe's parliament Te Kauhanganui on Sunday, according to a spokesman for his office.
The Waikato Times reported yesterday that King Tuheitia threatened to step down as King unless tribal members fell back into line. His comments appeared to stem from the fact that he was upset at criticism at his office's use of tribal funds and attacks on the executive board Te Arataura.
The Times headline yesterday was `I Will Abdicate'.
"King Tuheitia did not use those words, nor would he ever use such language," spokesman Rahui Papa said today.
"Many tens of thousands of people witnessed the king's coronation at Turangawaewae following the passing of his mother, Te Arikinui Te Ataiirangikaahu, in 2006.
"The crowning was a sacred ceremony that had followed the debate and ultimate selection by tribal leaders from throughout the country. The head of Kingitanga is not a title that can, nor would ever be abdicated irrespective of any tribal issues."
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