US EditionThe Ben Roberts-Smith saga is a test for Australia
The NT MP warned public commentary could politicize the case and undermine a fair trial, as Roberts-Smith faces multiple war crimes charges.
- On Monday, April 13, Northern Territory member for Solomon Luke Gosling emailed federal MPs, urging them to avoid public commentary on Ben Roberts-Smith's criminal trial. The 13-year ADF veteran wrote, "Everyone has the caucus lines but can I just discourage everyone from joining the public commentary about the accused in any way, shape or form."
- Criticism of the televised arrest of Roberts-Smith at Sydney Airport on Tuesday, April 7, prompted Farrer candidate and former colonel Brad Robertson to question the broadcast priority. Robertson told The Area News he "doesn't understand why would be a priority" to ensure the arrest footage was broadcast.
- Other Riverina veterans expressed "horror" over the televised arrest, including South West Slopes Vietnam Veterans president John Curtin. Robertson argued the accused should not be judged by people without "a connection to the environment" of military operations.
- In an April 9 social media post, Robertson affirmed his belief in the presumption of innocence. He wrote, "We can support the rule of law and still show respect for service. As a country, we should do both."
- Liberal MP and former SAS captain Andrew Hastie noted the war crimes debate presents significant challenges for the Australian Defence Force. The ongoing legal proceedings against Roberts-Smith continue to expose complex moral and cultural tensions within the nation.
11 Articles
11 Articles
Sydney Morning Herald
The Ben Roberts-Smith saga is a test for Australia
What is the greater sin – committing a war crime or ratting on a mate?
War hero Ben Roberts Smith should not be tried in a civilian court
AFP/OSI media conference shopping for evidence against Ben Roberts Smith By AR Williams, Canberra Correspondent Cairns News has a question for the Australian Federal Police Commander Krissy Barnett and OSI Director Investigations Ross Barnett: “How much money has been paid by the Australian Government to Afghani or any other informants to collect alleged evidence against […] The post War hero Ben Roberts Smith should not be tried in a civilian c…
Australian National Review - War hero Ben Roberts Smith should not be tried in a civilian court
AFP/OSI media conference shopping for evidence against Ben Roberts Smith By AR Williams, Canberra Correspondent Cairns News has a question for the Australian Federal Police Commander Krissy Barnett and OSI Director Investigations Ross Barnett: “How much money has been paid by the Australian Government to Afghani or any other informants to collect alleged evidence against Ben Roberts Smith?” “Testimony against Ben Roberts Smith only confirms the…
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