Vivek Singha, the Liberal candidate for Fowler Criticism has been directed at Mr Singh. The backlash is due to the numerous racial, sexist, and homophobic posts that he has perpetuated on the social media giant X. Some of the posts even have this language directed at First Nations people. They go on the offensive, launching vile personal attacks against Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek, prompting national condemnation. After ABC raised questions about his statements, Singha’s Instagram account went dark, leaving many to question what exactly was meant by his comments.
Between August and October 2023, Singha targeted Aboriginal Australians in several obnoxious posts. He further used the opportunity to score political points against Plibersek on a domestic issue. This behavior happened to align with the lead-up to the Voice referendum, during which time Singha was campaigning for a ‘No’ vote. His comments sparked outrage and led to discussions about accountability and the appropriateness of such language from a political candidate.
Controversial Remarks and Accusations
In his submissions, Singha used dehumanising language to describe Indigenous Australians. One post read, “Everybody needs to wake up to the sleeping lazybags (the Aboriginals),” which has been met with widespread condemnation. Critics, including many state lawmakers, say this language is extremely disrespectful. It further erodes the credibility of responsible conversations regarding the rights and representation of Indigenous peoples.
Singha didn’t stop his vile commentary at Indigenous matters either, taking particular aim at Minister Plibersek. He published quotes from the press coverage of her husband, implicitly and publicly questioning her ability to lead. In one inflammatory post, he stated:
“Worst of it all, why are YOU @tanya_plibersek of all people standing for others when you couldn’t even look after your own daughters (sic) safety… Anyword (sic) coming out of this person is as good as a puff frm the backside!!!”
In another post, he expressed disdain for the funding associated with the Voice referendum, stating:
“50K per a**, already being spent, they’ll want 500K per head.”
These comments underscore Singha’s hostile approach to Indigenous activism as well as to elected officials who support it.
Apology and Future Implications
In response to this backlash, Singha has released a statement today taking accountability for his social media behavior. He acknowledged that his comments were inappropriate and stated:
“I apologise for the social media posts, I should not have expressed myself in that way and I sincerely regret doing so.”
Despite his contrition, many political observers think Singha has little chance of winning the seat of Fowler. The contest now looks set to be a three way contest between independent MP Dai Le and Labor candidate Tu Le. According to political analysts, Singha’s incendiary statements will only turn away voters he needs to win over, prolonging his demise in an increasingly uphill battle.
Community Reactions and Broader Context
Singha’s posts sparked a huge reaction and highlights a rising intolerance for hate speech and harmful language, often referred to as “bully pulpit” language, in our politics today. Many community leaders and activists say they are dismayed. They argue these comments only serve to exacerbate fault lines, rather than fostering dialogue or healing.
Ben Britton, a local Indigenous advocate, commented on the impact of derogatory language:
“Their hips are being destroyed because they can’t cope with the carrying of the heavy loads.”
This troubling situation prompts important questions on the standards we hold political candidates to and their role in crafting the tone of public discourse. As Fowler moves ever closer to its elections, voters need to be able to assess candidates’ policy platforms. They must explore the character and integrity of those who wish to represent them.
