Scoop founder resigns from Internet Party

Derek Handley says Dotcom will not be able to provide solutions in many areas, but his vision on technology are relevant for the digital age. Photo / NZ Herald

Alastair Thompson has resigned from the Internet Party less than two weeks after he stood down as Scoop's chief executive to work for the Kim Dotcom-led organisation.

The Internet Party made the announcement in a statement this afternoon, providing no explanation as to why Thompson was leaving as the party's interim general secretary.

Former InternetNZ chief executive Vikram Kumar would take over the role.

"The Internet Party welcomes the support people have shown for our vision," the statement said.

"We expect to announce our new permanent general secretary in the near future."

Mr Dotcom unveiled the name and branding of his new political party on January 15.

Hours later, a draft document containing possible campaign strategies was published by blogger Cameron Slater.

Slater also claimed that Thompson, who is also a Parliamentary press gallery journalist, was working for the Internet Party - a breach of press gallery rules. After this claim, Thompson handed in his resignation from Scoop, an independent news website.