Labour MP Lemauga Lydia Sosene is taking medical leave from Parliament after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
The news was revealed in a statement from Labour leader Chris Hipkins this morning.
He said the MP for Māngere will take medical leave on September 17 to undergoing surgery and will remain on leave during her recovery.
“I wish Lemauga all the very best for her surgery and recovery,” Hipkins said.
“Receiving a diagnosis like this is never easy and is particularly hard on whānau.
“Lemauga and I discussed what she would like me to say on her behalf, and it is to encourage women of all cultures to get checked. You never think it will be you, or someone close to you – but cancer can affect so many people quietly.”
Lamauga is the second MP to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year with Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson revealing her diagnosis in June.
Jan Tinetti will become spokesperson for Internal Affairs and Carmel Sepuloni will take on associate portfolios of Pacific Peoples and Social Development and Employment for Lemauga.
Lemauga has asked for privacy for her and her family while she undergoes treatment.
