Pressure is mounting on the New South Wales Parliament to take action against independent MP Mark Latham following media reports alleging inappropriate behavior. Latham is accused of taking photos of female colleagues, making disparaging comments about them in private messages, and participating in a sex video filmed in his parliamentary office.
News Corporation published messages allegedly sent by Latham to his former partner, Nathalie Matthews. These messages reportedly included photos of upper house MPs with comments about their appearances and sexual remarks. This development follows Latham’s denial of allegations in a civil court apprehended violence order (AVO) application by Matthews, which accused him of a “sustained pattern” of domestic abuse.
Allegations and Denials
According to reports, Matthews is seeking court orders to prevent Latham from coming within 100 meters of her. In response to media inquiries, Latham shared a screenshot on social media purporting to be from The Sydney Morning Herald, asking about a “video of you/your partner involved in sexual activity in your parli office.” Latham responded, “You’re asking me to dispute something I haven’t seen put to you (and maybe you haven’t seen it) by ‘we are being told’.”
Latham has not granted interviews but has responded via text messages and social media posts, stating, “No suggestion of any law or rule broken.” He has also questioned the media’s reporting, suggesting that they have not seen the alleged video.
Reactions from Colleagues and Public Figures
The allegations have sparked reactions from several MPs and public figures. Miranda MP Eleni Petinos, who was allegedly the subject of one of Latham’s messages, stated, “Mark’s attitude towards his colleagues is disgraceful — instead of showing respect he chooses to objectify and degrade.”
Greens MP Abigail Boyd and Liberal MP Susan Carter were also mentioned in the alleged messages. Carter expressed her disappointment, stating, “Every person, man or woman, deserves respect in the workplace.” She later acknowledged an apology from Latham but emphasized the need to focus on parliamentary duties.
“In any other workplace you’d be shown the door immediately and rightfully so,” said Housing Minister Rose Jackson.
Political Implications and Responses
Premier Chris Minns has called for an investigation into Latham’s alleged behavior, suggesting that it “almost certainly” broke parliamentary standing orders. “The privileges committee should be investigating these things,” Minns stated, advocating for potential sanctions against Latham.
Acting Opposition Leader Damien Tudehope suggested that Latham owes an apology to the female MPs allegedly photographed but did not rule out future collaboration with him. “Mark Latham is a member of parliament. He is entitled to put up amendments as we are entitled to put up amendments,” Tudehope remarked.
Historical Context and Expert Opinions
Latham, a former leader of One Nation in the NSW Parliament and previously the federal Labor leader, has faced controversies in the past. Last year, he lost a defamation case brought by fellow MP Alex Greenwich. Political analysts suggest that Latham’s current situation could impact his political career significantly.
Former NSW One Nation colleague Rod Roberts defended Latham, stating, “He hasn’t broken any laws in New South Wales and he hasn’t broken any standing orders in Parliament. This is a matter between two consenting adults.”
“His behavior has dramatically gotten worse since he’s left the party,” said Premier Minns, who noted he had previously voted for Latham.
Looking Ahead
The Labor party plans to introduce a censure motion against Latham when parliament reconvenes, citing his alleged disclosure of confidential information under parliamentary privilege. The political landscape in NSW could see significant shifts depending on the outcome of these proceedings.
As the situation unfolds, the NSW Parliament and its members face scrutiny over how they handle allegations of misconduct within their ranks. The implications of this case could set precedents for addressing similar issues in the future.
