The Ethics of Politicians Requesting Anti-Corruption Agency Investigations

Australian Opposition Leader, Anthony Albanese has affirmed that the National Anti-Corruption Commission must remain independent of political influence following Coalition Opposition’s call for further scrutiny on Brittany Higgins’ compensation payout. Albanese labelled it “entirely inappropriate” for politicians to order the integrity body to investigate a matter. Meanwhile, Linda Reynolds, a Liberal Senator and Higgins’ boss at the time of the alleged rape, has flagged the compensation payout with the National Anti-Corruption Commission. Reacting to the development, Albanese said he had confidence in Senator Gallagher and that he had not met Higgins until April but didn’t disclose if he had spoken to her before that day. Higgins had settled a personal injury claim against the Commonwealth for an undisclosed amount in December 2022. The amount had initially been reported as high as $3m, but Higgins clarified it was substantially lower.

The Politicization of Investigations into sexual harassment

Investigations into sexual assault allegations and compensation payouts have increasingly been politicized in Australia. The sparring between Coalition and Labor Parties over Brittany Higgins’ compensation payout highlights a lack of independence of the governing system to attend to issues of sexual harassment and assault with transparency and impartiality. While such allegations should be investigated and compensation due paid out promptly, the process must remain free of political interference. Politicians should allow existing institutions such as the National Anti-Corruption Commission, to thoroughly investigate allegations without seeking to either expedite or suppress their work.

The Need for Independent Probe

The politicization of sexual harassment and assault investigations in Australia has a far-reaching impact through its repression of whistleblowers and impedes justice. An independent probe as being advocated by Linda Reynolds, Higgins’ boss at the time of the alleged rape, must be allowed to carry out the task of investigating and determining the circumstances of the compensation payout. With the anti-corruption commission having the reputation of independence from politics, it is imperative to allow it to carry out its work without a hint of political influence. Any attempt to direct the Integrity body to investigate a matter would be a disservice to its modus operandi and could trigger a loss of public confidence in its administration of justice.

Transparency and Impartiality

The sexual harassment debate is a critical aspect of a broader concern in Australia’s governance system. It underscores the extent of which politics could influence institutions’ willingness to discharge justice transparently and impartially. The pursuit of justice for victims of sexual harassment and assault is a sacred duty that must not be weighed down by political posturing and grandstanding. Australia must resolve these issues if it is to demonstrate stewardship to the outside world on its commitment to governance, and more importantly, the rights of female public servants.

Conclusion

With calls for further scrutiny on Brittany Higgins’ compensation payout, it is essential to reiterate that the National Anti-Corruption Commission, a body independent of parliamentarians, is well suited to investigate such matters. An independent probe will uncover the circumstances that led to Higgins’ compensation payout, and determine if the process followed was appropriate, transparent, and impartial. Politicians must not exploit sexual harassment or assault investigations for political opportunism. Instead, they should allow the system to discharge justice equitably, with a sensitivity that reflects its impact on victims of sexual harassment and assault. By doing so, the nation can create a safer and more inclusive work environment for all.

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