Greens to Persist in Gaza Campaign for a ‘Free Palestine’
New Greens leader Larissa Waters emphasized that addressing climate change will be a top priority, stating, ‘Our commitment has always been to the planet; we are the Greens.’
Larissa Waters, the newly appointed leader of the Greens, has announced that the party will persist with their Gaza campaign to “free Palestine,” alongside advocating for climate change actions.
This announcement follows the Greens’ loss of several seats in the House of Representatives, a setback many attribute to their strong pro-Palestine position and the presence of numerous MPs at various pro-Palestine demonstrations.
Following her election, Waters shared on X that the Greens would “continue to fight for a free Palestine.”
Additionally, in a press briefing after the meeting, she addressed Gaza, stating, “We will consistently speak out against atrocities, condemn genocides, and advocate for social justice and human rights.”
Waters elaborated on her leadership approach in an interview with the ABC on May 15, asserting that she would bring her own unique style to the role.
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“I am my own person compared to [former Greens leader Adam Bandt], but I take great pride in what he accomplished and the remarkable team he led, as well as our extensive policy platform,” she remarked on the ABC on May 15.
“I am a distinct individual, bringing a different leadership style. I aim to achieve tangible results and collaborate with the current government to enhance lives and safeguard the planet.”
When asked about focusing on renters and dental issues during the election campaign, Waters explained that the Greens have always maintained a comprehensive policy agenda, stating they can “walk and chew gum at the same time.”
“Our focus has always been the planet; we are the Greens. Climate and nature are fundamental to our mission,” she underscored.
“It’s essential that we address people’s needs. We are a prosperous nation, and we cannot allow one in six children to live in poverty.”
Greens Reshuffle
Elizabeth Watson-Brown is the sole Greens member in the lower house to retain her seat. However, the party successfully preserved 11 Senate positions.
In a reshuffle, Senator Mehreen Faruqi was named deputy leader, with Senator Sarah Hanson-Young as the manager of business.
Faruqi also expressed her support for continuing the pro-Palestine stance, labeling the events in Gaza as a “genocide.”
“Migrant and multicultural communities in cities like Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne have supported us for our truthful stance against the genocide in Gaza,” she declared.
Liberals, Nationals Also Select Leaders
Notably, the Greens were not the only party to select a new leader. On May 13, the Liberal Party appointed Sussan Ley as the first woman to lead the federal parliamentary team, winning the vote 29 to 15. Ted O’Brien was named her deputy.
Ley stated her intention to lead a Liberal Party that reflects, respects, and represents contemporary Australia.
“I congratulate Deputy Leader Ted O’Brien MP—federal member for Fairfax— and together we will work diligently to create a genuine alternative over the next three years.”
“Peter Dutton and I may have different styles, but we are different personalities, and I will offer a unique approach to my leadership,” she stated on the Today Show on May 16.
The Nationals have reelected David Littleproud as leader following a challenge by Senator Matt Canavan. Kevin Hogan was selected as his deputy.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese inaugurated a new expansive cabinet and then embarked on an overseas trip to Indonesia, Singapore, and the Vatican for the new pope’s inauguration.
“We will continue working tirelessly for all Australians. Our ALP Caucus is the largest in history since federation,” Albanese asserted.
