US Edition'Punch Blokes in the Mouth': Australian Politician's Fiery Exchange with Journalist
Bob Katter, Australia's longest-serving MP, threatened a journalist after questions on his Lebanese heritage amid tensions over immigration and the March for Australia rallies.
- On Thursday, federal MP Bob Katter threatened Channel Nine reporter Josh Bavas outside Parliament House, Brisbane, forcing the press conference to shut down.
- Ahead of Sunday’s March For Australia rallies, federal MP Bob Katter held a Brisbane press conference to announce his support and planned attendance, but a question from Channel Nine's Josh Bavas about his Lebanese heritage triggered a heated response.
- When the exchange escalated, Bob Katter moved toward Josh Bavas, repeatedly called him a 'racist', and said he was restraining himself from punching him at the event on Thursday.
- The press conference was promptly shut down, Channel Nine condemned the threats as unacceptable and backed its reporter, while Queensland opposition leader Steven Miles sought security assurances for multicultural communities.
- Given his family history and public profile, Bob Katter, age 80 and Father of the House, is known for eccentric remarks, while the March For Australia organisers face scrutiny over links to white nationalist talking points amid Multicultural Month.
28 Articles
28 Articles
Calls for consequences, apology after Bob Katter threatens to punch journalist
A growing number of politicians have called for consequences or an apology after independent MP Bob Katter threatened to punch a journalist.At a press conference in Brisbane yesterday morning, Katter was expressing support for anti-immigration rallies scheduled across the country this weekend when 9News reporter Josh Bavas began asking him about his Lebanese heritage.Bavas was unable to finish his question before the furious MP interjected.READ…
The MP expressed his support for the anti-immigration protests, but reacted strongly when the journalist reminded him of his Lebanese origin.
An Australian MP threatened a television reporter and waved his fist at a press conference on immigration after the reporter reminded him of his Lebanese roots, saying he had already punched someone for it.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 48% of the sources lean Right
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
