Pauline Hanson refuses to condemn Dezi Freeman defender
A One Nation volunteer who stood next to Pauline Hanson shared social media posts supporting cop killer Dezi Freeman and neo-Nazi Thomas Sewell as the party celebrated winning its first lower house seat.
Allan Beale had already made news ahead of the by-election in Farrer on Saturday after he was filmed trying to take Liberal senator James Patterson’s phone away in a tense street fight.
The One Nation volunteer had previously shared a Facebook post in support of Freeman: “Will the injured police officer be allowed to tell his story, or maybe he doesn’t even exist?”
“It’s something everyone should consider,” Mr Beale commented.
He was also active in comments regarding Victorian neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell, praising him for pushing back against pro-Palestinian protesters.
Mr Beale said of the demonstrators: “During my military days we would certainly have been more aggressive in preventing long-term injuries.”
Senator Hanson refused to directly condemn Mr Beale when questioned by reporters on Wednesday about his social media activities.
“He was invited there, he was a volunteer, it was a night of celebration,” Senator Hanson said.
“I do not condone violence or bullying of any kind.”
Congressman David Farley singled out the volunteer from the celebrating crowd during his victory speech on stage alongside Senator Hanson and New England Congressman Barnaby Joyce.
Mr. Farley put his arm around Mr. Beale and handed him the microphone.
One Nation senator Malcolm Roberts offered her a firm handshake with a “good job” and Senator Hanson hugged her back.
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