UPDATE: In a surprising development, John Sosso, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie‘s right-hand man, has been officially selected as the sole candidate for the Queensland Redistribution Commission (QRC), tasked with redrawing the state’s electoral boundaries. This decision was just confirmed at a parliamentary hearing led by Sarah Cruickshank, head of the Justice Department, earlier today.
This news raises significant concerns about potential biases in the electoral process, as Sosso has a controversial background within both major political parties. While the LNP defends his appointment, voices of dissent are growing. Notably, former inquiry leader Tony Fitzgerald warns of a return to “biased electoral boundaries,” reminiscent of the infamous Queensland gerrymander.
At the hearing, Cruickshank revealed that, despite considering other candidates, Sosso was the only individual recommended for the role. She stated, “The only one that we actually recommended in the brief was the head of the Department of Planning [John Sosso].” This decision comes amidst allegations of political favoritism, as Sosso previously served under Bleijie during the Newman government.
The implications of this appointment are profound. Fitzgerald’s statement underscores the importance of impartial electoral boundaries in a functioning democracy. He expressed concern that the decision could undermine public trust, saying, “Biased electoral boundaries fundamentally conflict with democracy.”
Under state law, the QRC is comprised of a judge or former judge, the electoral commissioner, and the head of a department or equivalent. As the process unfolds, public submissions to the QRC are set to close on December 6, 2023, with feedback being opened this month. The commission is expected to publish a proposed redistribution of the state’s 93 electorates for further feedback in early 2026.
Critics, including members of the Labor Party, have raised questions about Cruickshank’s connections to the Liberal Party, further complicating the narrative around this appointment. With the political landscape heating up, the call for transparency and impartiality in the electoral process has never been more urgent.
As this story develops, stakeholders and citizens alike are urged to keep a close watch on the outcomes of the QRC’s activities. The integrity of the electoral boundaries is at stake, with potential long-term ramifications for Queensland’s democracy. Stay tuned for updates on this critical issue.
