In a shocking development from Australia, Gareth Ward, a politician convicted of raping two young men, is fighting to retain his seat in the New South Wales (NSW) state parliament from behind bars. The 44-year-old was found guilty of sexually assaulting the victims at his home between 2013 and 2015, and is currently awaiting sentencing, which is scheduled for next month.
In light of the conviction, the NSW state parliament had originally planned to expel Ward this week. However, he has refused to resign following the guilty verdict, prompting his legal team to prepare an injunction to block the expulsion attempt. This Supreme Court hearing is set for Thursday.
"He's got no shame," commented NSW Premier Chris Minns on a local radio channel, emphasizing that Ward's actions are unacceptable for someone incarcerated due to serious sexual offenses. Minns reiterated the need for Ward to quit his position, labeling it a priority following the conviction.
Opposition leader Mark Speakman also expressed dismay at Ward's refusal to step down. He pointed out that taxpayers are unfairly burdened by the situation as Ward clings to his position, leaving the constituents of Kiama without representation. "It's not just wrong; it's offensive," he stated.
After the jury's decision, Ward said he was "absolutely shattered" and is currently taking legal advice regarding his appeal. Although he resigned from the Liberal Party and his governmental ministerial role amid the allegations in 2021, Ward was re-elected in 2023 as the representative for Kiama.
The NSW government had initially considered expelling him; however, legal concerns regarding potential trial prejudice delayed any action. If Ward is officially expelled, it would lead to a by-election for his seat, likely taking place within weeks.
In light of the conviction, the NSW state parliament had originally planned to expel Ward this week. However, he has refused to resign following the guilty verdict, prompting his legal team to prepare an injunction to block the expulsion attempt. This Supreme Court hearing is set for Thursday.
"He's got no shame," commented NSW Premier Chris Minns on a local radio channel, emphasizing that Ward's actions are unacceptable for someone incarcerated due to serious sexual offenses. Minns reiterated the need for Ward to quit his position, labeling it a priority following the conviction.
Opposition leader Mark Speakman also expressed dismay at Ward's refusal to step down. He pointed out that taxpayers are unfairly burdened by the situation as Ward clings to his position, leaving the constituents of Kiama without representation. "It's not just wrong; it's offensive," he stated.
After the jury's decision, Ward said he was "absolutely shattered" and is currently taking legal advice regarding his appeal. Although he resigned from the Liberal Party and his governmental ministerial role amid the allegations in 2021, Ward was re-elected in 2023 as the representative for Kiama.
The NSW government had initially considered expelling him; however, legal concerns regarding potential trial prejudice delayed any action. If Ward is officially expelled, it would lead to a by-election for his seat, likely taking place within weeks.
