Australian media reports that Fatima Payman, an Afghan-origin senator from the Labor Party in Australia, has officially resigned from the party approximately one month after facing criticism for her support of Palestine.
According to reports, Senator Fatima Payman announced during a press conference today, Wednesday, July 4th, that she has left the Australian Labor Party with a “heavy heart but a clear conscience.”
This controversial senator diverged from her party’s stance in May this year by publicly supporting the recognition of Palestine and accusing Israel of war crimes in Gaza.
Her actions angered the authorities of the ruling Labor Party, leading to the suspension of her membership. Reports indicate that she has taken no steps to rescind this suspension in the past month.
According to The Guardian, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese conducted a secret ballot after suspending Fatima Payman’s membership, officially confirming her expulsion from the Labor Party of Australia.
In response to the secret ballot, Fatima Payman stated, “I have been expelled [from the party]; these actions lead me to believe that some members are trying to intimidate me into resigning from the Senate.”
The situation underscores internal party tensions and raises questions about handling dissenting voices within Australian political parties.
Despite the controversy, Fatima Payman remains committed to her stance on international issues, including her advocacy for Palestinian rights, amidst ongoing debate and scrutiny within the Australian political landscape.
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