Senator heckles King Charles

During King Charles III's visit to Australia, Senator Lidia Thorpe disrupted his address at Parliament House by accusing him of genocide against Indigenous peoples and demanding a treaty with the Australian government. Thorpe, who is an Aboriginal senator, shouted, 'You are not my king' and called for the return of stolen lands, emphasizing that the British monarchy is responsible for historic wrongs. Despite her protest, which included claims of genocide and a call for recognition of First Nations sovereignty, the ceremony continued without acknowledgment of the incident. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, while welcoming the King, hinted at Australia's potential transition to a republic, reflecting ongoing debates about the monarchy's role. Thorpe's actions highlight the persistent tensions surrounding Australia's colonial past and the rights of Indigenous peoples. As King Charles continues his tour, discussions about the implications of these protests remain relevant.