Statement from the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice

The Governor in Council has today approved a recommendation by Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath to immediately suspend the Electoral Commission of Queensland’s Commissioner Walter van der Merwe, pending a show cause notice, as a consequence of serious allegations which could amount to misbehaviour under Section 25 of the Electoral Act 1992.

The allegations, while serious, do not suggest inappropriate interference in the outcome of elections.

The public can be assured that ECQ’s core obligations will continue to be met. The ECQ’s current Assistant Electoral Commissioner Dermot Tiernan will be Acting Electoral Commissioner.

There will be no further comment to ensure proper process is followed.

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