Golriz Ghahraman has not been charged with any crime, but acknowledged that her actions fell short of expectations
New Zealand Member of Parliament Golriz Ghahraman, who is affiliated with the Green Party, has resigned following allegations of shoplifting, prompting a police investigation.
According bbc news The former UN human rights lawyer, who made history as the country's first refugee in government in 2017, faced accusations of theft from two clothing stores in Auckland and Wellington.
CCTV footage emerged purportedly showing Ghahraman taking a designer bag from an Auckland boutique. While she has not been charged with any crime, the 42-year-old congresswoman acknowledged that her actions did not meet the standards of behavior expected of elected representatives and expressed her remorse.
Ghahraman attributed his behavior to work-related stress, stating, “I have disappointed a lot of people and I am very sorry.” He revealed that his recent actions were inconsistent with rational behavior and a mental health evaluation indicated that he was not well. Ghahraman emphasized that he had no intention of offering excuses for his actions.
In response to his resignation, Green Party co-leader James Shaw highlighted the incessant threats Ghahraman faced, including sexual violence, physical violence and death threats since his election to Parliament.
Stressful circumstances, exacerbated by ongoing police investigations into these threats, may have contributed to the consequences of his actions.
Ghahraman has previously spoken about the abuse she suffered due to her Iranian heritage, her gender, and her public stances on various issues.
The threats forced her to wear a security alarm and security escorts to and from Parliament. In 2017 she was escorted due to threats from white supremacists.
Despite criticism for his involvement in pro-Palestinian protests and his stance on Israel's military actions, Ghahraman's resignation is attributed to the intersection of stress and trauma.
Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson acknowledged Ghahraman's distress and said she remains supportive while addressing broader issues about the treatment of women with public profiles, especially women of color.
