Barnaby Joyce Faces Call for Sacking Over Controversial ‘Bullet’ Comment

In a recent protest rally against wind farms, Barnaby Joyce, a high-profile Australian politician, stirred up quite a storm with a comment that has many calling for his resignation.

While addressing a crowd at Lake Illawarra, Joyce suggested that voters should think of their ballot papers as bullets to ‘say goodbye’ to the prime minister and other senior politicians. He told the gathered protesters to ‘load that magazine’ when it comes time to vote.

When the footage of his speech circulated, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese immediately condemned Joyce’s language, labeling it ‘completely unacceptable’. He said such rhetoric could incite violence and that it has no place in Australian politics.

Albanese added that it was a test for Peter Dutton, the Coalition leader, to step up and take action against Joyce. He expressed disbelief that Joyce still has a job after making such remarks.

Joyce later apologized for his choice of words, admitting that calling a ballot paper a ‘bullet’ wasn’t the wisest metaphor he could have used. He clarified that instead, it should merely be viewed as a piece of paper for voting.

Labor MP Stephen Jones reacted strongly to Joyce’s comments, describing them as ‘dog whistling to political violence’. Another Labor MP, Peter Khalil, expressed that Joyce’s remarks were highly irresponsible, especially following recent violence in political contexts around the world.

During a morning TV appearance, Joyce defended himself initially, suggesting that the metaphor was meant to emphasize the power of voting. However, after being prompted by another guest, he realized the need to apologize for the insensitivity of his words.

Even members of his own party had mixed responses. Deputy Liberal leader Sussan Ley remarked that while she wouldn’t have used the same metaphor, Joyce is known for his colorful language. She emphasized the importance of language that brings people together rather than dividing them.

This incident isn’t the first time that an Australian politician has faced backlash for mixing violent imagery with politics. In the past, similar comments have sparked outrage and led to apologies.