Australia’s PM says predecessor ‘undermined democracy’ with secret roles
NBCOct 19, 2022
The Facts
On Tues., Australian PM Anthony Albanese announced a new investigation into former PM Scott Morrison, who's accused of secretly appointing himself to five ministries during the COVID pandemic.
While the time frame and nature of the upcoming inquiry are still to be determined, the cabinet has stated it will be a legal investigation to consider the "implications" of Morrison's actions.
The Spin
Left narrative
Despite Morrison claiming his parallel, secret cabinet was established due to exceptional scenarios during the COVID pandemic, it's clear these moves have deepened the gradual weakening of the Australian democracy. This must serve as a warning for Australia to repair its democratic safeguards.
Right narrative
While Morrison's actions were disturbing, there's too much hypocrisy and dishonesty in deeming him a despot or a dictator. All Australian governments have been guilty of overreach, and it's nonsensical to claim this move did any more damage to Australian democracy, especially compared to how citizens were confined to their homes by the government during COVID.
