First Muslim frontbencher abused online
Federal Labor MP Ed Husic has been attacked in social media for using a Koran when he was sworn in as parliamentary secretary by the Governor-General.
The Australian-born member for the western Sydney seat of Chifley, the son of Bosnian immigrants, in 2010 became the first Muslim elected to federal parliament and is the first to take on a ministry position.
He was sworn in as parliamentary secretary to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and parliamentary secretary for broadband in Canberra on Monday.
Overnight, his Facebook page attracted posts from people angry he had used a Koran instead of a Bible to take his oath.
“You have created history of the worst order, to swear in on a Koran!! This is Australia with Australian Laws,” said one poster calling themselves Dinki Di Sheila.
You might like
“Swore to serve Australia using the same book terrorists do to serve Al-Qaeda ….Disgusting,” said another.
These were also positive posts referring to Husic’s elevation to Rudd’s new line-up.
“Congrats on your appointment as Parliamentary Secretary Ed. Well deserved acknowledgement of your talents, commitment and hard work. Choice of portfolio is perfect for you Ed,” one said.
“So proud of you Ed …” another added.
Stay informed, daily
The milestone was acknowledged by Governor-General Quentin Bryce, who told Husic “this is a wonderful day for multiculturalism and everything it stands for in our country”.
Husic’s office has been contacted for comment.
Opposition Leader Tony Abbott said people should respect Husic’s choice.
“I respect his choice,” he told reporters in Melbourne. “I think the Australian people should as well.”
Federal Liberal MP Josh Frydenberg, who swore his oath of office on the Jewish bible, criticised those who attacked Husic for using a Koran when he was sworn in.
“The comments that have been written on his Facebook like `War is coming’ and `Australia is a Christian country’ and `You’re a disgrace, Ed’, they’re totally unacceptable,” Frydenberg told ABC radio in Melbourne.
“There’s definitely elements of extremism and racism in the community, but we’ve got to call it out when you see it.”
Frydenberg said Husic was a positive model for many people in the Muslim community and had been doing work behind the scenes to bridge gaps between cultures.
