King Charles III dey face serious criticism and protest during his visit to Australia. On Monday, as he dey address lawmakers at Parliament House in Canberra, an Indigenous senator, Lidia Thorpe, shout at am say “You’re not my king” and “You’re not our king.”
Thorpe, who be independent senator from Victoria, accuse British colonizers of committing genocide against Indigenous Australians. She demand say, “Give us our land back. Give us what you stole from us — our bones, our skulls, our babies, our people.” She also call for a treaty with Indigenous Australians and say, “You destroyed our land.”
Despite the disruption, King Charles and Queen Camilla no react visibly, but Charles engage in quiet conversation with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Thorpe eventually get escorted out by security.
This incident happen during King Charles’ first visit to Australia as monarch, which be his inaugural overseas visit since he become king. The visit also mark the first time a reigning British monarch visit Australia in 13 years.
The visit reignite debate about Australia’s relationship with the British monarchy. Many Australians, including Prime Minister Albanese, dey advocate for Australia to become a republic. However, changing the constitution to achieve this be a complex and challenging process.
King Charles acknowledge the traditional owners of the land during his speech and express his deep appreciation for the opportunity to honor Australia’s First Nations people. He also participate in a traditional Aboriginal welcoming ceremony outside Parliament House.
