David Connolly is set to be sworn in as the Northern Territory’s administrator on Friday, but the ceremony is overshadowed by ongoing controversy stemming from social media posts widely criticized as racist. Despite a late apology issued on Wednesday, key figures are questioning the sincerity of Connolly’s remorse and calling for a reconsideration of his appointment.
The controversy centers around posts made on X (formerly Twitter) that included attacks on what Connolly termed “Indigenous privilege,” apparent mockery of Welcome to Country ceremonies, and a disparaging re-post referring to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as an “arsehole.” These posts, resurfaced in recent weeks, prompted calls for the Country Liberal Party’s nomination of Connolly to be rescinded, put on hold, or reviewed. The incoming administrator’s apology, delivered just days before the swearing-in, has failed to quell the criticism.
Aboriginal Elder Dismisses Apology as Insincere
Yingiya Guyula, a Northern Territory Member of Parliament, was particularly vocal in his rejection of Connolly’s apology. “The apology doesn’t change anything at this time,” Guyula stated, according to SBS Australia. He urged Connolly to decline the position, arguing that doing so would demonstrate an understanding of the damage his views have caused. Guyula emphasized that Connolly has a “clear record that everyone can see of being offensive” and was “the wrong choice for the position.”
Guyula is among a group of politicians, advocates, and community groups who have signed a letter requesting Prime Minister Albanese to “urgently rescind” Connolly’s appointment to restore public confidence. He also directly appealed to Albanese to withdraw his support, stating that Connolly should not be sworn in until he can prove he no longer holds racist opinions. Guyula suggested Connolly could begin to demonstrate genuine remorse by respectfully engaging with Elders and learning about their culture, rather than making “judgements from the outside.”
Governor-General Welcomes Apology, Emphasizes Restraint
Despite the ongoing criticism, Governor-General Sam Mostyn welcomed Connolly’s “full apology” after arriving in Darwin for the swearing-in ceremony. According to NT News, she had spoken with Connolly to remind him of the “restraint required” in his upcoming role, which carries a salary of $377,000 per year.
The controversy surrounding Connolly’s appointment raises questions about the vetting process for vice-regal positions and the importance of social media scrutiny for public figures. The situation also highlights the ongoing sensitivity surrounding Indigenous issues in the Northern Territory and the necessitate for respectful dialogue and understanding.
The swearing-in ceremony is expected to proceed as planned on Friday, but the shadow of the past posts and the lack of widespread acceptance of Connolly’s apology will likely linger. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Connolly can bridge the divide and earn the trust of the Northern Territory community.
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