Golriz Ghahraman, the Green Party’s representative and the first refugee to join New Zealand’s parliament, tendered her resignation on Tuesday following accusations of shoplifting.
As learned by Quest Times, the 43-year-old who achieved historic recognition in 2017 as the first refugee sworn into the New Zealand government, is facing allegations of theft from two clothing stores; one in Auckland and the other in Wellington.
Ghahraman attributed her actions to the overwhelming stress linked to her parliamentary duties, acknowledging that her behaviour has deviated significantly from her usual character.
In response to security footage allegedly capturing her taking a designer handbag from an Auckland boutique, Ghahraman, who has not been charged with any crime, released a statement acknowledging her actions falling short of the public’s expected standards.
“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. 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 unrecognized trauma,” she stated.
Moreso, Green Party co-leader, James Shaw, highlighted the persistent threats of violence Ghahraman has faced since her election, stating that continuous police investigations into these threats have significantly heightened her stress levels.
Shaw emphasized the unique challenges faced by Ghahraman, adding that the consequences of sustained threats and stress are evident.
While Marama Davidson, the fellow Green Party co-leader, acknowledged Ghahraman’s resignation, she expressed concern for her well-being, emphasizing the ongoing support she will receive.
“We have seen the conversation over the past years, especially over the particular treatment of women with public profiles, and in addition, the particular treatment of women of colour with public profiles,” said Davidson.