UPDATE: Independent senator Lidia Thorpe is facing intense backlash following her controversial remarks at a pro-Palestine rally in Melbourne on October 15, 2023, where she threatened to “burn down Parliament House” in solidarity with Palestinians. The Labor Party has swiftly condemned her comments, which have ignited discussions about public safety and the appropriateness of protest rhetoric during a sensitive time.
Authorities and political figures have expressed their outrage, with Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek labeling Thorpe’s words as “absolutely irresponsible.” Speaking to Seven’s Sunrise, she emphasized the need to avoid inflaming tensions as a ceasefire unfolds in Gaza, stating, “We just don’t want to give it extra air.”
Cabinet minister Amanda Rishworth also criticized Thorpe’s comments, calling them “clearly inappropriate.” Rishworth highlighted the importance of respectful protest, urging Australians to focus on peace rather than inciting violence. “If fighting can stop in the Middle East, we need to make sure that we are turning the temperature down here at home,” she told Nine’s Today.
During her address, Thorpe drew parallels between the struggles of Palestinians and Indigenous Australians, declaring, “So we stand with you every day… if I have to burn down Parliament House to make a point, I am not there to make friends.” Her remarks were met with enthusiastic cheers from supporters in attendance, illustrating the polarizing nature of her statements.
Deputy Opposition Leader Ted O’Brien responded to the fallout, stressing the need for unity and hope rather than “hatred protest,” especially in light of the imminent release of Israeli hostages by Hamas. “These protests go against our values, which should be uniting Australians right now,” he asserted, calling for a collective focus on peace.
The Labor Party is reportedly considering disciplinary measures against Thorpe as discussions continue about the implications of her incendiary remarks. This developing story highlights the intersection of political expression, public safety, and international solidarity, drawing attention to the urgent need for dialogue in Australia amid global tensions.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on how both the government and the public respond to Thorpe’s provocative statements and the broader implications for civil discourse in Australia.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
