Independent MP Monique Ryan has condemned recent comments by One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, including her admiration for Donald Trump's mass deportation approach and a perceived endorsement of the White Australia policy.
Ryan's Reaction to Hanson's Statements
Speaking to ABC's Afternoon Briefing, Ryan said Hanson's comments made her “sick”. She referenced footage of people being killed during deportation in the US and individuals removed from hospital settings. “The thought of that happening in this country makes me sick,” Ryan said. “The fact that Pauline Hanson thinks that’s a reasonable way to treat and deal with vulnerable people tells me that she is not fit to have any significant leadership role in the country.”
Rejection of White Australia Policy Accusation
Ryan also rejected Hanson's accusation that she was misinterpreted as supporting a White Australia policy. “I think it would appear that One Nation doesn’t know what they believe,” Ryan said. “On one hand it does not talk to the other combine a bit doesn’t know what Pauline is saying, they are incredibly incoherent as a political force.” She added that it is remarkable One Nation receives as much airtime as they do and that they need to be held to account and come up with reasonable, rational policies if they believe they have a role in the country's leadership.
Context of the Controversy
Hanson's comments have sparked widespread criticism, with Ryan being among the most vocal opponents. The independent MP for Kooyong emphasized that such views are dangerous and out of step with Australian values.
