Green Party MP Benjamin Doyle Resigns from Parliament, Cites Well-Being

Benjamin Doyle, a Member of Parliament representing the Green Party, has announced their resignation from Parliament effective October 3. The decision comes after a challenging period marked by personal reflection and external pressures, including threats and hateful accusations.

In a statement released on September 5, Doyle articulated their need for personal healing, stating, “Over the past months, I have been on a journey of healing. During this time, I have come to the realisation I cannot complete this journey while in Parliament.” The MP emphasized the toll that public scrutiny and hostility have taken on their well-being and that of their family, whom they refer to as their whānau.

Doyle highlighted the importance of family, saying, “Whānau is the most precious thing in the world. From the start, I have always said my child is my priority.” A key factor in their resignation was a request from their child to step back from political duties, which Doyle acknowledged as a significant consideration in their decision.

Despite stepping away from their parliamentary role, Doyle expressed a commitment to continue advocating for social and environmental issues outside of Parliament. “I leave Parliament with pride, and that is something nobody can take away from me,” they stated. Doyle also thanked their constituents for their trust and support, remarking, “It was a pleasure and a privilege to represent and work for the communities that carried me here.”

Doyle plans to deliver a valedictory speech on September 18, providing a final opportunity to address their colleagues and constituents before their departure. They concluded their statement with a call for reflection on the current political climate, noting, “Our politics, our democracy and our Parliament should be a place for everyone. My time here has shown we clearly still have work to do. I hope this experience is something that we can all learn and grow from.”

As Doyle prepares to leave Parliament, the Green Party and its supporters are bracing for the impact of this resignation, which underscores ongoing discussions about the pressures faced by public figures in today’s political environment.