Senator Lidia Thorpe is under investigation by the Australian Federal Police following her statement expressing willingness to “burn down Parliament House” in solidarity with Palestinians.
Thorpe clarified that her comment during a pro-Palestine rally was intended as a metaphorical expression.
In a rare public disclosure, the AFP announced they would assess whether the statement violated any laws.
“This will be done methodically,” an AFP spokesperson said.
“It is not the usual practice of the AFP to provide a running commentary on matters.
“Despite the public discourse and concerns, the AFP assures the community that this matter is being thoroughly evaluated and addressed promptly.”
Lidia Thorpe emphasized her opposition to violence, reaffirming her dedication to seeking justice through non-violent, democratic processes. Source: AAP / Mick Tsikas
At a rally in Melbourne on Sunday, the firebrand senator for Victoria compared the plight of Palestinians to that of Indigenous Australians.
“So we stand with you every day, and we will fight every day and we will turn up every day and if I have to, burn down Parliament House to make a point,” she said, to cheers from the crowd.
The comments sparked a political firestorm, with Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke urging leaders to avoid inflaming community tensions.
He said the natural instinct when “offensive” comments were made was to “increase the pressure.”
“I don’t think that’s in the interests of social cohesion,” he told reporters in Canberra.
He suggested her remarks “stand on their own … but increasing tensions in response may only exacerbate the issue.”
Thorpe clarified her comments on Monday, saying they were “a metaphor for the pain in our communities”.
“They were obviously not a literal threat,” she said in a statement.
“This mock outrage is ridiculous. While people are dying and starving in Gaza, politicians and media are once again clutching their pearls and chasing a scandal.”
Deputy Liberal leader Ted O’Brien said the comments went against Australian values.
“To be making those sort of statements are absolutely appalling … and to hear the roar of the crowd, that’s deeply concerning,” he said.
