Iranian-New Zealand MP Suspended Amid Shoplifting Allegations

Dual national Golriz Ghahraman, a Green Party MP in New Zealand and prominent human rights lawyer of Iranian origin, has been suspended amidst shoplifting allegations.

The Green Party has officially acknowledged the accusations and announced that Ghahraman will temporarily suspend all her portfolio duties until the matter is resolved. Reports suggest that the alleged incident took place at Scottie's Boutique, an upscale clothing store.

In an official statement, a spokesperson for the Green Party said the party is "aware of allegations regarding MP Golriz Ghahraman" and was in contact with Scottie's Boutique to "better understand and address the situation".

"Green MPs are expected to maintain high standards of public behavior," the spokesperson said.

Ghahraman, who made history as the first refugee sworn in as an MP in New Zealand, arrived in Aotearoa as a child asylum seeker with her family from Iran. Initially serving as a Green Party list candidate in January 2017, she secured the seventh position on the Green Party's list in the 2023 election.

Ghahraman’s portfolios for the Greens included justice, foreign affairs, defence, ethnic communities, and trade.

Auckland police confirmed an investigation is ongoing.