Kempsey councillor refuses to quit after violent Facebook comment
Noel Selby defied unanimous council calls to resign. An investigation found he posted violent remarks about a woman on Facebook.
Kempsey Shire councillor Noel Selby spoke to a woman about domestic violence concerns. Selby said it was a pity he hadn't bashed her.
An independent investigation found this on his Facebook post. The council unanimously voted to ask for his resignation.
The council recommended he attend a men's behavior-change program. Selby refuses to step down.
He claims his account was hacked. Mayor Kinne Ring said the comment left the community rightfully outraged.
The investigation cost the council more than $40,000. The matter has been referred to the Office of Local Government.
They may disqualify him from office.
- $40,000
- Investigation cost
- 75 years
- Councillor age
- Kinne Ring
- Mayor
Why it mattersA councillor refusing accountability for violent language damages public trust. Local government must respond well to domestic violence. This matters in a region where domestic violence is common.
AustraliaAustralian local government systems can request but not force a councillor's resignation; Selby's refusal tests whether the Office of Local Government will use its power to disqualify him.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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