Defiant Dowie vows to stay on
National MP Sarah Dowie has spoken to media for the first time since being named by police in relation to a text sent from her phone to Jami-Lee Ross.
Speaking to reporters before National’s caucus retreat yesterday morning, Dowie said she would not stand down while the investigation was under way. “I am committed to the people of Invercargill, just as I always have [been].”
She would not comment on her affair with Ross.
“If there is a police investigation under way, it would be inappropriate for me to comment.”
Late last month, the police revealed they were investigating a text message, allegedly sent from Dowie’s phone to Ross which included the words “you deserve to die”.
Dowie said police had not contacted her in relation to the inquiry. Yesterday was the first time Dowie has spoken publicly, after being named by police in relation to the text. Ross had previously named Dowie as one of the women with whom he had an extra-marital relationship with.
National leader Simon Bridges said the Dowie saga was not a distraction for the party. “I think it’s a tough time for her personally and I think everyone would understand that.” He said the party would be backing her.
“What she’s got to do . . . is show the people of Invercargill what a champion she can be for that area.”
Bridges said Dowie should not stand down during the police investigation into the alleged text.
He said he first learned about the text “well after” he had been dealing with disciplinary actions related to Ross. When he first read it, he said he thought it was “regrettable” and “not something I would condone”.
He said Dowie would remain spokeswoman for conservation and there was no need for a byelection.