Waikato-Tainui executive chairperson Tukuroirangi Morgan says he accepts there's significant discontent within the iwi over his leadership.
But he says he intends to work harder to change that.
Critics say the executive under Mr Morgan behaves as if it's no longer accountable to the people, through the parliament, Te Kauhanganui.
Mr Morgan says that's not the case and he rejects the accusation that he's thumbing his nose at Te Kauhanganui.
He says a recent vote by 30 marae to sack him as a member of the parliament failed because of insufficient numbers.
But he says it does indicate significant dissatisfaction and he takes that seriously.
Mr Morgan says it's a reminder to him to work more closely with the people, and he's making that his priority, going into the next election.
