Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has defended himself following the no-confidence motion passed by the Australian Parliament on Wednesday, reiterating that he is proud of his achievements and his administration.
«I am proud of my achievements in this place and I am proud of my government, Mr. Speaker. I am proud that at a time of extreme trial, my Government stood up and faced the abyss of uncertainty that our country found itself in,» Morrison said, referring to the head of government’s secret appointment of up to five ministerial portfolios during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite this, he admitted that «in retrospect» the powers were not necessary, while acknowledging that he did not attach importance to appointing himself to the posts, which is why he decided not to disclose the measures.
However, he has accused the government of Anthony Albanese of «intimidation» by presenting a motion of censure against him, which he has criticized as «totally partisan».
«I have no intention now of submitting to the political intimidation of this Government, using its numbers in this place (the Lower House) to impose its retribution on a political opponent,» the former prime minister has declared, as reported by the Australian ABC.
After these words, Albanese regretted that Morrison only shows «arrogance» and «denial», criticizing that he is not sorry for his management.
The Australian Parliament has approved the first motion of censure against a leader of this country, obtaining 86 votes in favor and 50 against, most of them being members of Morrison’s opposition Coalition.
The no-confidence motion, which is the most serious declaration of disapproval by the Australian Parliament, is a symbolic act with no legal impact. Therefore, it has no consequences for Morrison as a Member of Parliament, the network reported.
