Convicted Rapist’s Bid to Stay in Australian Parliament Sparks Debate
Gareth Ward, an Australian politician convicted of sexually assaulting two young men, is attempting to remain in the New South Wales state parliament despite his guilty verdict. Ward, who was found guilty last month and is currently in custody pending sentencing, has refused to resign, prompting the NSW House of Representatives to plan his expulsion. His lawyers are seeking a Supreme Court injunction to prevent his removal from parliament while he appeals his conviction. NSW Premier Chris Minns has condemned Ward’s actions and reiterated calls for his resignation, highlighting the unconscionable situation of a convicted sex offender demanding to remain in office.
John Q. Hosedrinker