Australia's PM says predecessor 'undermined democracy' with secret roles

16/8/2022 11:33

        Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his predecessor Scott Morrison had "undermined our democracy" by secretly appointing himself minister for home
        affairs and treasury during the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to the health, finance and resources portfolios previously revealed.
        
        After a review of the matter by the Prime Minister's department, Albanese told reporters Morrison had taken on the health and finance portfolios in March 2020, home affairs and Treasury in May 2021, and resources in April 2021.
        
        "Its completely extraordinary that these appointments were kept secret by the Morrison government from the Australian people," he said.
        
        Albanese will receive legal advice on the issue from the Solicitor General on Monday, and said he was critical of the Morrison government for allowing a centralisation of power by the prime minister.