A New Zealand Green Party lawmaker stepped down on Monday amid media claims that she had engaged in shoplifting at upscale local stores on multiple occasions.
While not directly addressing the allegations, Golriz Ghahraman, the parliamentarian, cited mental health challenges and work-related stress as factors that led her to behave in a manner inconsistent with her usual conduct. In a statement, she acknowledged falling short of the expected standards, expressed remorse, and attributed her actions to irrational behavior, noting that a medical evaluation revealed her current state of unwellness.
Ghahraman, an Iranian-born parliamentarian since 2017 and the first refugee to hold such a position, is reportedly accused of shoplifting at Scotties Boutique in Ponsonby, Auckland, and at Cre8iveworkz in Wellington, as per local media. New Zealand Police are investigating an incident at a Ponsonby store in December but have not confirmed Ghahraman’s involvement. Ghahraman expressed gratitude to Scotties Boutique, and Green Party co-leader James Shaw highlighted the challenges she faces, including threats received since entering office.
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