MP Gareth Ward Resigns Ahead of NSW Parliament Vote to Expel Convicted Sex Offender

In a dramatic turn of events, Independent MP Gareth Ward has resigned from the New South Wales (NSW) Parliament ahead of a planned vote to expel him. This decision comes after he was convicted of sex offences against two young men, a verdict that has sparked widespread public and political backlash.

The Court of Appeal recently rejected Ward’s legal bid to prevent the Legislative Assembly from exercising its power to expel him, clearing the way for the government to proceed with the expulsion. However, Ward opted to resign before the vote, submitting his letter of resignation at 9:08 am on Friday, just hours before the planned motion.

NSW Premier Chris Minns expressed frustration over the timing of Ward’s resignation, stating that the government had wasted significant time and resources attempting to resolve the matter in the Supreme Court. "If you're convicted of some of the most serious charges, sexual assault in NSW, you can't sit as a serving member of parliament drawing a parliamentary salary," he remarked.

Minns also confirmed that the Speaker of the House would issue a writ for a by-election in the electorate of Kiama, which is expected to be held at a date to be determined. The Premier emphasized that his party would be making plans to contest the by-election, ensuring that voters in Kiama have a choice.

Reactions from Ward’s constituents in Kiama have been largely negative, with many expressing relief that he has finally stepped down. One local resident, Carol, said, "I am disgusted Gareth Ward was sitting in jail while he was paid out money — $5,000 a week. As soon as he was found guilty, he should have been sacked or at least stood down."

Another resident, Sarah, echoed these sentiments, stating, "I think he should have stood down. The biggest thing with such a small community in Kiama is trust. If you can't trust your local member, then who do you turn to?"

Leader of the House Ron Hoenig criticized Ward’s decision not to resign earlier, calling it a "vexatious" attempt to challenge the parliament’s authority. He noted that the House had not expelled a member in over a century, and the process had been a "shameful exercise".

Opposition Leader Mark Speakman described Ward’s resignation as happening at "five minutes to midnight," suggesting it was long overdue. He criticized Ward for "playing games" with his constituents and the public, stating that his actions were "disgraceful".

While Ward’s resignation may have spared the parliament the unprecedented step of expulsion, it has not eased the controversy surrounding his case. His actions have raised serious questions about the integrity of public office and the responsibility of elected officials to uphold the trust of their communities.

The coming weeks will focus on the by-election in Kiama, with political parties preparing their strategies. The outcome of this contest will not only determine who represents the electorate but also serve as a test of public sentiment in the wake of Ward’s resignation and the broader implications of his actions.