Australia To Investigate Ex-PM Morrison
On Tues., Australian PM Anthony Albanese announced a new investigation into former PM Scott Morrison, who's accused of secretly appointing himself to five ministries during the COVID pandemic.
Facts
- On Tues., Australian PM Anthony Albanese announced a new investigation into former PM Scott Morrison, who's accused of secretly appointing himself to five ministries during the COVID pandemic.
- While the time frame and nature of the upcoming inquiry are still to be determined, the cabinet has stated it will be a legal investigation to consider the "implications" of Morrison's actions.
- This comes after an earlier probe carried out by the country's Solicitor-General Stephen Donaghue determined that Morrison imperiled the principles of a "responsible government" even though his actions were legal.
- Following this legal advice, Albanese's staff is set to discuss a plan to publish all ministerial appointments into law with the office of Governor-General David Hurley – Australia's ceremonial head of state.
- From March 2020 to May 2021, Morrison held positions in five ministries – finance, health, home affairs, science, energy and resources, and the treasury – without notifying ministers, the parliament, or the public.
- After losing the general election in May 2022, Morrison stepped down as leader of the Liberal Party. Since the phantom ministries came to light, Morrison has faced calls to resign from parliament.
Sources: Bloomberg, Guardian, Al Jazeera, Associated Press, and Axios.
Narratives
- Left narrative, as provided by El-Telegraph. Despite Morrison claiming his parallel, secret cabinet was established due to exceptional scenarios during the COVID pandemic, it's clear these moves have deepened the gradual weakening of the Australian democracy. This must serve as a warning for Australia to repair its democratic safeguards.
- Right narrative, as provided by Sky. While Morrison's actions were disturbing, there's too much hypocrisy and dishonesty in deeming him a despot or a dictator. All Australian governments have been guilty of overreach, and it's nonsensical to claim this move did any more damage to Australian democracy, especially compared to how citizens were confined to their homes by the government during COVID.
