Australia's Liberal-National Coalition, the country's main opposition, reunited on Sunday, more than two weeks after the centre-right partners split in a row over hate speech laws. 'The Coalition is back together and looking to the future, not to the past,' Liberal Party leader Sussan Ley announced in Canberra. The Coalition initially split on January 22, when the Nationals opposed reforms pushed by the government, citing concerns about free speech following a deadly attack during a Jewish festival in December that resulted in 15 casualties. 'It's been disappointing; we've got to where we are, but it was over a substantive issue,' National Party leader David Littleproud commented. This reunion comes after a lackluster election loss, with previous separations occurring last year over climate policy. Ley expressed the Coalition's commitment to guiding its supporters and stated that decisions made in the 'shadow cabinet' of the coalition would not be easily overturned. Dating back to the 1940s, this marks a rare split within the Coalition, which mainly consists of the more conservative National Party and its regional constituencies, now facing pressures from radical populist movements.
Australia's Liberal-National Coalition Reunites Amidst Hate Speech Law Controversy
Australia's Liberal-National Coalition Reunites Amidst Hate Speech Law Controversy
After a split over hate speech laws, Australia's main opposition Coalition has reunified, marking a significant moment in the country's political landscape.
The Liberal-National Coalition in Australia has reunited after a split regarding hate speech reforms during the aftermath of a tragic attack. Coalition leaders emphasized a focus on the future, acknowledging the challenges faced in recent months due to differing perspectives on free speech and the proposed legislation aimed at curbing hate speech.
