Pick on Tamaki but ignore Minto

Why Is John Minto Not Facing the Same Scrutiny?

John Minto has once again crossed a concerning line, reportedly publishing photographs of Israeli visitors in Christchurch and encouraging people to confront them and tell them they are not welcome. This is not simply criticising the Israeli government. It is singling out identifiable individuals, making serious accusations against them and encouraging strangers to approach them. Minto has every right to express his political views, but surely that right comes with responsibility for the safety of people he publicly targets.

So where are the New Zealand Police? Brian Tamaki has been charged with inciting racial disharmony over comments he made, yet there appears to be no comparable public response to Minto's latest actions. Why? Are the police examining his conduct, and if not, why not? The circumstances may differ legally, but the public deserves reassurance that the law is being applied consistently, regardless of someone's political beliefs or the nationality of those being targeted.

We have already seen an Israeli visitor seriously assaulted in Christchurch after being questioned about his nationality and military service. Now there is also the troubling claim of a man left in a wheelchair following violence over his views, which deserves verification and investigation. How much more harm must occur before authorities recognise the dangers of encouraging public confrontation? Nobody should face intimidation or violence simply because of their nationality, religion or opinions.

The question for New Zealand Police is straightforward: what are you doing about John Minto's actions, and why does there appear to be such a different level of scrutiny? Equal protection under the law should mean equal protection for everyone.