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Controversial NT administrator apologises for past social media posts | ABC NEWS
Summary
David Connolly, set to be sworn in as administrator, issued an apology for past social media posts that have drawn significant criticism. His comments, which included disparaging language about women and Indigenous cultural practices, have raised concerns about his suitability for the role.
The Northern Lairn Council has expressed strong disapproval, labeling some of Connolly's posts as racist and calling for the revocation of his appointment. Protests are planned to coincide with his swearing-in, indicating widespread public dissent.
Reports have emerged suggesting that Connolly's controversial tweets were known to the Chief Minister's Chief of Staff during the vetting process, raising questions about the thoroughness of the appointment review. The Chief Minister's office has denied these claims, asserting that they are defamatory.
The situation underscores a potential failure in the vetting process for public officials, particularly regarding their past behavior on social media. The lack of accountability from leadership may contribute to a culture that tolerates inappropriate conduct.
Perspectives
short
Support for Connolly's Apology
- Acknowledges Connollys apology as a positive step
- Considers the apology to be full and sincere
- Believes Connolly understands the need for a change in behavior in his new role
Opposition to Connolly's Appointment
- Labels Connollys past posts as racist and unacceptable
- Calls for the revocation of his appointment due to public backlash
- Questions the Chief Ministers judgment in proceeding with the swearing-in despite controversy
Neutral / Shared
- Notes the Chief Ministers office denies prior knowledge of Connollys tweets
- Reports on the planned protests during Connollys swearing-in ceremony
Metrics
other
2019 and 2020
years of controversial tweets
These years indicate the timeline of Connolly's problematic behavior.
newly uncovered tweets from Mr Connolly posted in 2019 and 2020
Key entities
Timeline highlights
00:00–05:00
David Connolly issued an apology for past social media posts that were criticized as racist and offensive. His upcoming swearing-in as administrator has sparked protests and raised concerns about leadership accountability.
- David Connolly issued an apology for his past social media posts, acknowledging the hurt they may have caused. His apology comes just before his swearing-in as administrator
- The Northern Lairn Council criticized some of Connollys posts as racist and called for his appointment to be revoked. They expressed frustration over ongoing divisions in the territory
- Concerns were raised about Connollys past tweets, which included disparaging language and jokes about drugging women. These comments have sparked discussions about the culture surrounding such behavior
- Reports surfaced indicating that a senior official was aware of Connollys controversial tweets during the vetting process. Despite this, the Chief Ministers office denied the claims, calling them defamatory
- After months of controversy surrounding his appointment, Connollys swearing-is set to proceed with a protest planned nearby. The Chief Minister has not addressed questions regarding her judgment in this matter
- The situation has overshadowed the Governments agenda, with many feeling that their concerns are being ignored. The ongoing debate reflects broader issues related to leadership and accountability