New Zealand PM Aide Resigns Over Secret Recordings Scandal

Michael Forbes, deputy chief press secretary to New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, resigned after allegations emerged that he secretly recorded audio of sex workers and took non-consensual photos and videos of women, including in public and private settings. The incident, initially reported by a sex worker who discovered Forbes' phone recording audio without consent, led to police investigations which concluded there was insufficient evidence to file charges. Prime Minister Luxon expressed shock and zero tolerance for such behavior, extending sympathy to the victims and emphasizing the need for accountability. The scandal has prompted calls from the Prime Minister and others to review and strengthen New Zealand's privacy laws, addressing gaps related to unauthorized recordings and digital consent, particularly to protect vulnerable groups such as sex workers. Forbes admitted to the recordings and apologized publicly, but failed to disclose the allegations to the Prime Minister's office, which raised concerns about transparency and oversight. Police and officials have acknowledged the distress caused to the women involved and remain open to considering new information and legal reforms to better safeguard privacy and consent.