NT Greens Candidate Removed Over Controversial Social Media Posts
The recent decision by the NT Greens to remove their candidate for Araluen stemmed from a series of social media posts and comments that were deemed inconsistent with the party’s core values.
One of the posts shared by Peltherre Chris Tomlins, an Arrernte and Warlpiri elder, insinuated that the government was under the influence of “Zionists,” a sentiment widely condemned as anti-Semitic by various groups, including the Executive Council of Australian Jewry.
Mr. Tomlins, however, has refuted allegations of anti-Semitism, stating that his withdrawal from the candidacy was in the best interest of the territory campaign.
In September 2023, Mr. Tomlins shared a post on his personal Facebook account implying that the government is under the influence of Zionists. The post criticized the idea of having a government controlled by Zionists or corporations, advocating instead for a government elected by and for the people. Within the post, Mark Leibler, a prominent Australian-Jewish businessman, was referred to as a “global executive Zionist” and a “puppet master” due to his role as co-chair of the Referendum Council.
Following the circulation of this post, NT Greens candidate, Mr. Tomlins, faced repercussions for his social media activity. NT Greens convenor, Jonathan Parry, expressed regret for any harm caused by Mr. Tomlins’ posts, stating that they do not align with the views of the NT Greens. Consequently, Mr. Tomlins was no longer endorsed as the Greens candidate for Araluen in the upcoming territory election, despite his previous candidacy for the Greens in 2020.
Acknowledging Mr. Tomlins’ contributions to the community, Mr. Parry emphasized the importance of upholding high standards for candidates running for public office. The NT Greens reiterated their commitment to combating racism and anti-Semitism, underscoring the significance of candidate probity and care in the selection process.
In response to the situation, Mr. Tomlins chose to withdraw as a Greens candidate, citing his decision as beneficial to the territory campaign. He refuted allegations of anti-Semitism, asserting his pride in his cultural heritage as an Arrernte and Walpiri elder, expressing solidarity with marginalized communities. Despite any unintended offense caused, Mr. Tomlins extended his apologies, emphasizing that his actions were never intended to be hurtful.
NT Greens candidate faces backlash over anti-Semitic post
The Chief Executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, Alex Ryvchin, pointed out that Mr. Tomlins’ post highlights a concerning trend of anti-Semitism within the Greens party.
Alex Ryvchin criticized Peltherre Chris Tomlins, stating that he “belongs at a Klan meeting,” emphasizing the concerning alignment with racist conspiracy theories regarding Jewish greed and global domination, typically associated with neo-Nazism. Ryvchin highlighted the need for the party to address the prevalence of anti-Jewish sentiments among its members and elected officials, questioning why someone with such extreme views would be associated with a movement that claims to be anti-racist and progressive.
The situation unfolded following Police Minister Brent Potter’s apology for sharing a post featuring a quote from a Nazi general, along with other posts containing homophobic and misogynistic content. This incident raises further questions about the party’s stance on such issues and the type of individuals it attracts, including those like Peltherre Chris Tomlins, who is deemed unfit for a supposedly inclusive and progressive movement.
NT Greens Candidate Undergo ‘Probity Checks’ Amid Allegations of Sharing Anti-Semitic Post
Responding to inquiries regarding the recent controversy surrounding the Police Minister’s social media activity, Suki Dorras-Walker, the Greens candidate contending for the Fannie Bay seat, emphasized the importance of community accountability. In an interview with ABC, she stated, “It is incumbent upon all members of our community to speak out against such viewpoints.”
Expressing her disappointment, Dorras-Walker criticized Brent Potter and Chief Minister Eva Lawler for their defense and minimization of the controversial posts. She highlighted her concern by stating, “The aspect that troubles me the most is the justification and trivialization of these posts.”
Despite the situation, Dorras-Walker acknowledged that if any Greens candidate were found to have shared inappropriate content, it would be addressed within the party. She mentioned, “Such instances will be subject to internal discussions when they arise.”
She further elaborated that the response to such incidents would vary based on the nature of the post and the public’s reaction. Dorras-Walker emphasized the importance of community feedback in determining the appropriate course of action.
Additionally, Dorras-Walker disclosed that all Greens candidates undergo thorough probity checks before being selected, providing them with the opportunity to address any potential issues proactively.
It is worth noting that Mr. Tomlins, who previously contested for the Greens in the Braitling seat in Alice Springs in 2020, highlighted his upbringing in East Side, drawing attention to the need for a shift in attitudes within the Alice Springs community.
Mr. Tomlins recently questioned the validity of the Uluru Statement from the Heart in a social media post. The ongoing discussion about racism in the Northern Territory resurfaced following NT Police’s announcement of a thorough investigation into claims of prevalent racist attitudes within the police department. During his testimony at the Kumanjayi Walker coronial inquiry, former constable Zachary Rolfe revealed that “racist language is pervasive” and that he personally witnessed high-ranking police officials openly using such language. The NT Greens candidate and an anti-Semitic post are central to this conversation.
