Manurewa Local Board member Joseph Allan has lodged a formal code-of-conduct complaint with Auckland Council, alleging that fake Facebook accounts were used to harass him, his family, and other candidates in the Manurewa-Papakura ward race.
Allan told legacy media (paywalled) the accounts—linked to a rival political camp—spread false accusations and promoted another candidate.
Police reviewed Allan’s complaint about “misleading and threatening” online behaviour but found no criminal offence.
Council chief executive Phil Wilson confirmed an investigation is under way, while the accused man denied responsibility, saying Allan’s team had spread “fake news.” The incident follows ongoing tensions within the ward, where outgoing councillor Angela Dalton cited online abuse as a reason for leaving politics.
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