Christian Porter must be seen to be publicly accountable

By Joe Montero

Christian Porter’s rape allegation case is a serious problem for Scott Morrison, and by extension, for his government. It comes on the heels of other alleged cases and has once again, thrown the spotlight on the treatment of women by this government.

It is related the problem of the position of women across society, which is something that should concern every one of us. We must all be part of ensuring the equality of women in all respects. This is how we build a better tomorrow.

Mistreatment of women is magnified by the existence of a class divide. A few hold power and they treat the rest of humanity as less than their narrow circle. This is the thinking that is shown to be deeply embedded within the Coalition government.

Rape is ultimately the forcing of power over someone else. That this could occur within the circles of the present government should surprise no one.

An alleged offense should normally be proved before the accused is condemned. This is the defence Porter is using and is being personally backed by Scott Morrison and some senior ministers. The problem with this is, those who take on a public political life and choose to be leaders, must be seen to be doing the right thing.

The reason is that the alleged offense has a political impact that imposes itself on society. We are all affected. Would be leaders must lead by example, or they do not deserve the title.

This means that the right thing to do is to not impede a police investigation. there must also be a public inquiry. Australia is on trial over this. The need to overcome the abuse of women in the corridors of power and across society demands this.

When a government stands by due process in one instance and ignores it in others, something is not quite right.

All we need is to look at laws brought in to accuse people of terror acts, negate the right of journalists and whistleblowers to tell the truth as they see it, and particularly important, laws brought in to punish unions. All these have in common an absence of the burden of proof and other restrictions to defend oneself against accusation.

Scott Morrison, Christian Porter, and this government use innuendo and accusation as a routine method to dispose of those they don’t like. As far as they are concerned, the rule of law only applies when it is convenient.

It’s time to cut out the bull and get on with the business of laying the facts bare and holding the guilty to account for what they have done.