Pauline Hanson has been suspended from the Australian Senate for seven days after wearing a burqa in the chamber, a stunt that drew widespread condemnation. The suspension, only the fifth since 1901 and the first since 1979, came after Hanson disrupted proceedings to protest the rejection of her bill to ban face coverings in public.
Observers say the move highlights Hanson's narrow political focus and poor instincts, despite One Nation's rising poll numbers. While her anti-burqa stance may appeal to some media audiences, it is far from a mainstream concern among voters, who are more focused on cost-of-living issues.
Hanson's theatrics have fuelled speculation that she is courting disaffected former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce to join One Nation. Joyce has hinted at a defection, and the pair were seen dining together in Hanson's office on Monday night. However, some allies have warned Joyce against the move, citing concerns about his motives.
Labor ministers condemned Hanson's actions, with Penny Wong accusing her of 'parading prejudice as protest for decades'. Katy Gallagher criticised her for targeting migrants. Hanson defended herself, saying, 'I'll stand my ground and what I believe in... It will be the people that will judge me.'
