Ketan Could Still be “Crowned King” Despite High Court Rejection

Ketan Lal could still get his wish of stopping people from voting in a referendum despite the High Court recently dismissing his application for an interim injunction to halt the process.

“Well well well…. The kingmaker has another kingmaking to do,” Lal wrote on social media following reports that SODELPA members had voted overwhelmingly to oppose the Bill.

According to Mai TV boss, Stanley Ian Simpson, SODELPA members voted 221–75 at a Special General Meeting to direct their MPs to oppose the Bill at its third reading.

The development comes just days after High Court Judge Justice Dane Tuiqereqere rejected Lal’s application for an interim injunction, finding that the application was based on a flawed legal premise.

Lal and his team had failed to provide a single local case authority in the matter.

SODELPA, which played a decisive role in forming the Coalition Government following the 2022 General Election, could again influence a major parliamentary decision.

However, whether its opposition is enough to block the Bill will depend on the final parliamentary vote and the required constitutional majority.