Immigration New Zealand’s decision to bar conservative commentator Candace Owens has sparked controversy, with the Free Speech Union planning legal action against the Government.

The organisation claims the move infringes on New Zealanders’ freedom of expression and argues the decision was based on a flawed interpretation of immigration law.

Candace Owens, a high-profile American political commentator and author, is known for her outspoken conservative views and frequent criticism of progressive movements.

Owens’ influence extends globally through her work as a commentator for The Daily Wire, a conservative media platform, and her advocacy on issues such as free speech and political identity.

Her critics have accused her of promoting divisive rhetoric, while her supporters champion her as a defender of free thought.

Jonathan Ayling, Chief Executive of the Free Speech Union, said the decision to bar Owens from entry appeared to hinge on a misapplication of section 15 of the Immigration Act, which mandates the exclusion of individuals convicted of serious crimes or who have been deported from another country.

“Section 15 refers to individuals who have been convicted of serious crimes with imprisonment of more than five years. The de facto exclusion applies most frequently to individuals who are deported or removed from another country. It is not the same thing, to be refused entry as to be excluded, and Immigration New Zealand should know this,” Ayling said.

Owens’ visa was denied by Australia last month, which Immigration New Zealand cited as justification for their decision. Ayling argued that this does not meet the criteria for exclusion under New Zealand law.

The controversy intensified after political groups such as Young Labour publicly called on Immigration New Zealand to deny Owens entry.

Ayling said this created the perception of political bias, adding, “A sophisticated country is able to deal with opinions that some find controversial, distasteful, or even dangerous. The most mature way to deal with these views is to challenge and rebut them, not to exclude them from the conversation.”

The Free Speech Union has called on Chris Penk, the Minister of Immigration, to intervene and overturn the decision.

Ayling said, “There is no reason to think that Candace Owens poses any threat to Kiwis other than forcing them to consider perspectives some deem controversial. We believe Kiwis are up to the task of thinking for themselves.”