MP Gareth Ward Resigns Amid Rape Sentencing, By-Election Looms

BREAKING: New South Wales MP Gareth Ward has officially resigned as the representative for Kiama while awaiting sentencing for rape, triggering a significant political shift. Ward submitted his resignation to Speaker Greg Piper on Friday morning, just hours before a motion to expel him was set to be introduced in the Legislative Assembly.

This urgent development follows a failed appeal by Ward’s lawyers to the Court of Appeal on Thursday, paving the way for a motion supported by both Labor and the Coalition. The ramifications of this resignation could lead to the first lower house expulsion in over a century, raising immediate questions about the upcoming by-election.

Wes Fang, a member of the NSW Nationals, was seen in Kiama just last week engaging with local leaders, such as Kiama Business Network treasurer Greg Langford. “While Gareth Ward was distracted by his court proceedings, I’ve made sure I’ve been in Kiama, providing a voice to the electorate,” Fang stated to NewsWire, underlining the Nationals’ commitment to local issues.

As the political landscape shifts, Fang expressed the party’s eagerness to represent Kiama, stating, “If asked, we’d love the opportunity to represent the electorate through a Nationals local member.” His social media posts showcased his engagement with the community, emphasizing discussions on the local business environment and rising cost of living.

Simultaneously, reports indicate that Joe McGirr, an independent MP, is proposing a motion to repeal the controversial “Brumby Bill,” which may create further tension between the Liberal and Nationals parties. This development is expected to spur high-level discussions among Coalition partners regarding their strategy in Kiama.

When asked about the potential for the Liberals to field a candidate in the by-election, Opposition Leader Mark Speakman emphasized that discussions would occur swiftly. “It’s a matter for the party’s management committee,” he noted, indicating a sense of urgency as both parties navigate this political upheaval.

Ward, who was convicted in July 2022 on three counts of indecent assault and one count of sexual intercourse without consent, has been a controversial figure since his initial election in 2011. Despite his legal troubles, he narrowly retained his seat in a tight contest against Labor’s Katelin McInerney in 2023, winning by a mere 0.08 percent on the two-party preferred vote.

Premier Chris Minns confirmed that discussions are already underway regarding Labor’s candidate for the upcoming by-election, with an announcement expected next week. While he did not confirm if McInerney would run, he acknowledged her as a strong contender. “This would be a very, very tough contest for Labor,” Minns admitted, highlighting the independent spirit of Kiama residents.

As the political scene continues to evolve, expect rapid developments in the lead-up to the by-election, with both major parties strategizing to secure the vital seat. Stay tuned for the latest updates as this story unfolds.