Maverick MP Hone Harawira has quit the Maori Party.
Mr Harawira said in a statement it was his intention to continue to serve the Tai Tokerau electorate as an independent MP.
His announcement followed a Maori Party national council meeting today, which was considering a disciplinary committee recommendation to expel him.
Party whip Te Ururoa Flavell lodged a complaint last month against Mr Harawira over his outspoken criticism of the party, and his claims it was too caught up in its coalition with National and supported anti-Maori policies.
Mr Harawira said he would also run in this year's election as either an independent MP or as a member of a new political party.
He has advised the party's leadership he would not be contesting any Maori seats in the election.
``I understand that the Maori Party has agreed not to stand a candidate against me in 2011 either,'' he said.
``I intend setting out a very clear policy programme around issues I intend to prioritise, but I have also advised the party leadership that I will make myself available to meet with the caucus to discuss issues of common concern.''
The Maori Party will cast his proxy vote.
Mr Harawira said he would not like to see the Maori Party destroyed by infighting five years after it was born.
``I understand the vital importance of putting the problems of the past few weeks behind us so that we can all move on,'' he said.
``I am comfortable with the view that we have come to a point where we can all agree that it is best for me and the party to go our separate ways, and to focus on the issues that are crippling Maori people, and indeed Pasifika and Pakeha people living in poverty throughout this country.''
He said office accommodations, resourcing and seating in the house would be worked out over the next few weeks.
``My life before entering politics was one of constantly challenging myself and those around me to achieve positive change for Maori, and I am confident that there is a lot more that I have to contribute to the political makeup in this country,'' he said.
``I look forward to the next few months with optimism and renewed vigour, and with a focus on building a movement that acknowledges that what is good for Maori will also be good for Aotearoa.''
Mr Harawira said he would go back to his electorate and supporters around the country to inform them of his plans.
``It is their energy and support that has sustained me in the past, and particularly during the difficulties of the past few weeks,'' he said.
Hone Harawira quits the Maori Party
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