In a dramatic turn of events, Gareth Ward, a 44-year-old Australian politician and convicted rapist, officially resigned from parliament just hours before facing expulsion. The former independent member for Kiama recently lost a legal challenge aimed at reversing the New South Wales (NSW) parliament's decision to oust him. Ward's conviction for the sexual assault of two young men—aged 18 and 24—between 2013 and 2015 has led to his current custody status pending sentencing.
Gareth Ward Resigns From Australian Parliament Following Rape Conviction
Gareth Ward Resigns From Australian Parliament Following Rape Conviction
Convicted rapist and former MP Gareth Ward's resignation prompts a by-election in Kiama, following court dismissal of his legal bid to remain in parliament.
Ward filed legal action earlier this week, arguing that his expulsion was a violation of democratic principles. However, the court dismissed his argument, presenting an official statement rejecting the claim that removal constituted an affront to democracy. As the impending vote for his expulsion loomed on Friday morning, Ward preemptively submitted his resignation letter to the parliament shortly before the scheduled vote was set for 10:30 AM local time.
His departure marks a significant consequence of the conviction, eliminating his parliamentary salary and prompting a by-election in the Kiama electorate, which he has represented since 2011. Notably, Ward had resigned from his position as a state government minister and separated from the Liberal Party in 2021, yet remained in parliament until his recent resignation.
NSW Premier Chris Minns addressed the situation, stating that the convicted rapist's resignation should have occurred sooner, affirming that a person found guilty of serious sexual assault charges should not be allowed to serve as a parliament member drawing a salary. Opposition leader Mark Speakman criticized Ward's attempts to challenge his expulsion as disgraceful and accused him of manipulating the legislative process. Ward, who is set to face sentencing next month, has indicated his intention to appeal the guilty verdict.
His departure marks a significant consequence of the conviction, eliminating his parliamentary salary and prompting a by-election in the Kiama electorate, which he has represented since 2011. Notably, Ward had resigned from his position as a state government minister and separated from the Liberal Party in 2021, yet remained in parliament until his recent resignation.
NSW Premier Chris Minns addressed the situation, stating that the convicted rapist's resignation should have occurred sooner, affirming that a person found guilty of serious sexual assault charges should not be allowed to serve as a parliament member drawing a salary. Opposition leader Mark Speakman criticized Ward's attempts to challenge his expulsion as disgraceful and accused him of manipulating the legislative process. Ward, who is set to face sentencing next month, has indicated his intention to appeal the guilty verdict.
