Tomoana was elected Speaker of the House because his tenure in parliament gave him the experience necessary to guide debates and maintain order.

Hamiora Mangakahia was re-elected for a second term as premier, and the role of speaker was given to Mohi Te Ātahīkoia of Ngāti Kahungunu.

In the course of this session, Henare Tomoana accused Mangakahia of financial mismanagement of Te Kotahitanga during his first term as premier, and attempted to force his resignation.

But Mangakahia was able to demonstrate in rebuttal that the mismanagement of Kotahitanga funds had actually developed during the term of his successor, Hoani Te Whatahoro Jury.

Mahuta appointed a committee to consider the proposal, but was undermined by Waikato chief Tupu Atanatiu Taingakawa Te Waharoa, who circulated a rival deed of union calling for all Māori tribes to unite under the Kingitanga.