The leader of the Social Credit party, Chris Leitch, passed away this morning after a long battle with neck cancer.
He is survived by his wife Anne, son Andrew, two stepdaughters Tracey and Darian, and brother Tim.
‘Mr Leitch was a long time activist for Social Credit having held just about every position in the party since he first became involved in 1972, a feat he was awarded life membership for in 2012,’ said party president Gloria Bruni in a press statement.
‘His father was candidate in the 1960s and his brother has also been a candidate several times.’
The Social Credit Political League came into existence 70 years ago in 1953 and has stood candidates in every election and most by-elections since that date.
It has been successful in getting six MP’s into parliament in that time.
Mr. Leitch was a regular contributor to DTNZ. ‘We are deeply saddened to have learned of Chris Leitch’s passing,’ said editor Malcolm Dreaneen. ‘He was a great New Zealander who had a deep passion for his country and community. He was always a kind, compassionate and generous person to deal with. We send his family and friends our sincere condolences.’
Social Credit got 6 candidates into Parliament under FPTP but no non establishment party has got a candidate into Parliament under MMP, looks like MMP is a better system for the Establishment than FPTP ever was.
I think the last election proved that beyond doubt. Absolute majority under MMP.
I concur Malcom. I never met the man but could see the passion for his country in his writing. Condolences to his family at a sad time for them all.
Sad news. My thoughts are with his family ❤️❤️❤️
This is sad news indeed. I feel †he country has lost a great human and a great humanitarian. There are so few of these kind of people really. May he rest in peace but be continually quoted.