Channel Nine has condemned federal MP Bob Katter’s behaviour after a fiery press conference in Queensland where he threatened journalist Josh Bavas and labelled him a racist.
The incident unfolded when Mr Bavas asked Mr Katter about his family’s Lebanese heritage in the context of the MP’s comments that only migrants from certain countries, such as Finland and Croatia, should be admitted to Australia.
The 80-year-old independent MP snapped back, shouting: “Don’t say that! Because that irritates me, and I’ve punched blokes in the mouth for saying that… I’m restraining myself today. Don’t say it!”
He then accused the reporter of racism, declaring: “You’re a racist, you cannot say what you’ve just said without being identified as a racist.”
Nine demands apology
In a statement, Nine’s executive director of news and current affairs Fiona Dear said the network stood firmly behind Mr Bavas.
“Mr Katter’s aggressive behaviour and threats were unacceptable. His baseless and offensive accusation of racism is an irresponsible attempt to shut down a legitimate line of questioning and warrants a public apology,” Ms Dear said.
Mr Bavas, who has Hellenic heritage, said the incident was unprecedented in his career. “In my nearly 20 years in journalism, I’ve never experienced that kind of reaction from an elected representative,” he said.
Katter doubles down
Despite calls to apologise, Mr Katter later defended his conduct, saying: “I don’t threaten, I just act… I won’t be ashamed or apologising to anyone for my behaviour this morning.”
The clash has drawn widespread attention ahead of this Sunday’s controversial March for Australia rallies, organised by an anti-immigration group that claims to defend “the people, culture and nation that built Australia.”
Source: news.com.au
