In a significant political shift, Western Australian Senator Fatima Payman has resigned from the Labor Party, citing irreconcilable differences with the Albanese government over its stance on Palestine.
Payman, who had already been indefinitely suspended from Labor’s federal parliamentary caucus, announced her decision on Thursday at a press conference held at Parliament House.
Payman's departure comes in response to what she describes as the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. She expressed profound anguish over the plight of civilians, particularly children, affected by the conflict. Her decision to leave the party was driven by a deep sense of moral obligation and a desire to advocate for urgent action.
The senator acknowledged the internal conflict she faced, torn between the grassroots members urging her to remain within the party and the pressure from the caucus to adhere to the party line. Despite multiple attempts to address her concerns through internal party channels and direct conversations with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and senior ministers, Payman felt her views were dismissed, with decisions seemingly pre-determined before reaching caucus meetings.
Elected to the Senate in 2022 for a six-year term, Payman emphasized her commitment to continue serving the people of Western Australia from the crossbench. Labor officials, however, argue that her position in the Senate was secured as an ALP candidate, implying that her departure contradicts the voters' mandate. Payman countered this, stating her primary responsibility is to represent the voices of her constituents, regardless of party affiliation.
Payman has been increasingly vocal about the Israel-Palestine conflict, condemning Israeli military actions in Gaza and describing the situation as a genocide. Her outspoken stance culminated in her crossing the floor on June 25 to support a Greens motion in the Senate that called for immediate recognition of the state of Palestine.
This act of defiance against the party line, especially after Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong's failed attempt to amend the motion to align with a two-state solution, solidified her decision to resign.
Apart from her stance on Palestine, Payman highlighted her policy priorities, which include addressing housing affordability, the cost of living, the climate crisis, the high incarceration rates of Indigenous peoples, and the imprisonment of children as young as 10. She underscored the need for urgent and compassionate policy changes in these areas.
Payman’s resignation has also brought attention to her personal journey. Her family fled Taliban-ruled Afghanistan shortly after her birth, and she has often spoken about their struggles and the values they instilled in her. She reiterated that her family's experiences and her faith drive her commitment to speak out against injustices, no matter the personal cost.
The senator has faced significant backlash for her positions, including death threats and hostile emails. Despite this, she remains resolute in her advocacy, dismissing accusations of antisemitism and reaffirming her stance against the marginalization of Palestinians.
Political strategist Glenn Druery has been linked to Payman through informal discussions with Muslim community groups, although there is no formal agreement between them. Payman has distanced herself from the Muslim Vote group, stating no intention to collaborate with them.
Payman's resignation marks a substantial rupture within the Albanese government and reflects broader tensions within Australian politics regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict.