Mark Latham, the former One Nation MP, is embroiled in controversy following allegations that his parliamentary office was used to record explicit videos. When questioned about these claims, Latham did not deny their existence, responding instead with derision. “You’re asking me to dispute something I haven’t seen,” he stated in a text message. “Is this really today’s journalism? Grow up. You’re obviously a clown.”
The allegations have surfaced amid a tumultuous period for Latham, whose relationship with Nathalie Matthews ended on May 27, coinciding with a significant vote regarding the future of Rosehill Gardens racecourse. On a radio broadcast, Latham referred to the breakup as “that horrendous night,” noting that he has had no contact with Matthews since, aside from returning some belongings and maintaining a minor co-ownership of a trotting horse.
Allegations and Legal Proceedings
Matthews, a Liberal Party member and former OnlyFans creator, alleges that Latham coerced her into degrading acts and drove his car at her, causing injury. Her court documents detail a series of disturbing claims, including being subjected to demeaning sexual acts and being pressured to engage with others. Matthews asserts that Latham’s actions were intended to demean and control her.
“[Latham’s alleged acts] including defecating on me before sex and refusing to let me wash, forcing degrading sexual acts, pressuring me to engage in sexual acts with others, demanding I call him ‘master’, telling me I was his property, and repeatedly telling me that my only value to him was for sex to demean and control me,” her court document reads.
Latham, on the other hand, has dismissed the leaked explicit messages between him and Matthews, claiming they were edited and taken out of context. He defended his conduct in parliament, asserting that his record “matches up against anyone in the upper house.”
Political Reactions and Implications
The controversy has drawn reactions from various political figures. Premier Chris Minns expressed his hope for the truth to emerge through judicial proceedings, emphasizing the importance of MPs focusing on their constituents during parliamentary sessions. “These are serious allegations, if they are to be tested in court or some other judiciary that should take place,” Minns stated.
Acting Opposition Leader Damien Tudehope defended working with Latham on legislative amendments, arguing that personal conduct should not preclude the assessment of policy proposals on their merits. “The opposition will continue to deal with anyone who puts forward policy proposals, and it doesn’t matter who they are,” Tudehope remarked.
Legal and Personal Entanglements
Meanwhile, Matthews has sought an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) against Latham, although NSW Police declined to pursue it on her behalf. She is now pursuing the matter privately. Additionally, Matthews has taken an AVO out against her former husband, Ross Matthews, who faces criminal charges for allegedly harassing her through numerous phone calls.
Court documents allege he used a “raised voice” and was “speaking aggressively over the phone,” leaving Matthews “feeling shaken and scared.”
This development follows a civil action taken by Ross Matthews against her in the NSW Supreme Court, which concluded in late May. The legal entanglements add another layer of complexity to the unfolding drama surrounding Latham and Matthews.
Looking Ahead
As the situation continues to develop, the implications for Latham’s political career remain uncertain. When parliament resumes, Labor’s leader in the upper house, Penny Sharpe, plans to refer Latham to the privileges committee over his use of parliamentary privilege to disclose private information about a rival MP.
The unfolding legal battles and political maneuvers highlight the intricate web of personal and professional challenges facing those involved. As the court proceedings advance, the public and political spheres await further revelations that could influence the trajectory of Latham’s career and the broader political landscape.
