The fact that our former PM, ousted by Malcolm Turnbull last September, will recontest his seat at the next election isn’t the only shocking Tony Abbott news for today.
Apparently, he will spend Australia Day jetting off with his wife, Margie, to the United States to address one of the country’s most conservative Christian organisations, the Alliance Defending Freedom.
Fairfax Media reports Mr Abbott will rouse the Republican-aligned group – which opposes abortion, same-sex marriage and gay couples adopting children – with a speech on “the importance of family”.
The group has opposed programs aimed at promoting tolerance and reducing bullying of LGBTI students, calling for “truth days” that promote the open discussion of homosexual behaviour as sinful.
The Alliance Defending Freedom also believes parents should be able to opt their children out of school sex education programs that differ from their religious beliefs.
Despite previously saying he wanted to take some time off from politics to spend with his family, Mr Abbott confirmed he would re-contest the federal seat of Warringah at the next election.
In a statement, he said his colleagues had encouraged him to stay in politics and he intended to ensure his electorate got better public transport links to the rest of Sydney.
Whether he plans to make another grab at the Prime Ministership is not clear, though with the Rudd-Gillard dramas still in the minds of many, his decision to remain in politics could lead to a few sleepless nights for Mr Turnbull.
Top Comments
Free speech, folks. Welcome it, even if you disagree (as I do), as a sign that we live in a democracy.
When is this backward, dangerous man going to just go away?? We don't want his ideas here, our country needs to move forward, not backward. Voters of Warringah, please get rid of him. He and his religious bent have no place in our politics.
I have voted in Warringah for over 30 years and I nor any of my family or close friends have ever voted for this lunatic. However, with a high percentage of retirement villages in the area, it looks like he's rusted on here.
Even mamamia didn't print my feedback from yesterday, I guess they didn't approve my sentiment.
What a nasty comment. Fortunately we live in a democracy and can each choose to disagree with it.