Northern Territory Speaker Robyn Lambley publicly criticised CLP backbencher Dr Tanzil Rahman in parliament on Wednesday, accusing him of attempting to “silence” parliamentary staff through legal threats rather than taking responsibility for alleged bullying.
Dr Rahman released a statement earlier this week defending his professional record and noting he was considering legal action over media coverage of the allegations.
“I value my integrity and am deeply offended by allegations of professional misconduct,” he said, adding that he remained committed to representing his constituents and advancing voluntary assisted dying legislation.
It is reported that Ms Lambley said Dr Rahman could have expressed “genuine remorse” to two female Department of Legislative Assembly staffers who raised complaints about his alleged conduct as chair of the Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee, but instead engaged lawyers and implied he might take action against colleagues.
“Threatening defamation against colleagues who have spoken about your parliamentary conduct is not just a personal matter – it is an attempt, whether intended or not, to silence people who have every right to speak,” Ms Lambley told the chamber.
“The path available to you is not complicated: withdraw the legal threats and apologise genuinely and directly to the staff who were harmed. That is not weakness; that is leadership.”
The Speaker said she had a responsibility to ensure the safety of staff who raised the allegations and noted that the complainants acted with “restraint and dignity,” seeking no media attention.
As per reports, the controversy has intensified scrutiny of the Country Liberal Party, with political insiders suggesting Dr Rahman could face difficulties securing pre-selection for the seat of Fong Lim if the matter remains unresolved.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro, asked earlier in Question Time what actions were taken against Dr Rahman, reiterated that it was an “HR matter” resolved by the Speaker, declining further comment.
It is reported that attempts by the Labor opposition to refer Dr Rahman to the parliamentary privileges committee were blocked by the CLP government’s majority, leaving calls for accountability unresolved.
Meanwhile, independent MLA Justine Davis urged the parliament to implement a code of conduct to protect both staff and members from bullying, citing inappropriate remarks and behaviour in the chamber.
The CLP government passed an amended motion recognising the importance of safe workplaces but declined to establish a formal code.
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