Pauline Hanson triggered a national uproar after entering the Australian Parliament wearing a burqa, leading to a 90-minute suspension, accusations of racism, and intense political backlash. Here’s what happened — and why the country is divided.
Chaos in Canberra: Senator’s Burqa Entrance Sparks Outrage Across Australia
Australia was thrown into political turmoil when far-right senator Pauline Hanson walked into Parliament wearing a full burqa, instantly halting proceedings and triggering one of the most heated reactions seen this year. The unexpected act caused a 90-minute suspension, forcing senators to stop debate as outrage erupted across the chamber.
Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, has long advocated for banning Muslim face coverings in public spaces. But her shock entrance went far beyond debate — it ignited a nationwide firestorm.
Accusations of Racism Flood the Chamber
Her appearance was met with disbelief before fury swept through the Senate.
Muslim senators responded immediately:
- Mehreen Farooqui labeled the stunt “blatant racism”.
- Fatima Peyman called it “shameful and dangerous.”
Even government and opposition leaders condemned Hanson’s actions, saying the stunt was disrespectful, provocative, and harmful to Muslim communities.
A Political Stunt With a Dark History
This is not the first time Hanson has embraced shock tactics. She pulled a similar stunt in 2017, also wearing a burqa inside Parliament. But this time, critics argue she crossed an even more dangerous line, given the rise in far-right rhetoric and growing polarization in Australia.
Her One Nation party, which now holds four Senate seats, has been gaining traction among voters drawn to anti-immigration messages. Analysts warn that her tactics are becoming more extreme and more theatrical with each appearance.
Hanson Defends Herself — and Doubles Down
After the uproar, Hanson released a defiant statement on Facebook, insisting she wore the burqa to protest the Senate’s refusal to consider her ban on full-face coverings.
She described the garment as:
- “Oppressive”
- “Radical”
- “A threat to national security”
- “A symbol of women’s abuse”
She vowed to continue wearing it “unless Parliament bans us.”
A Nation Once Again Divided
The stunt has reignited heated debates on:
- Religious freedom
- Islamophobia in politics
- Security vs. personal liberty
- The rise of far-right nationalism
While supporters claim Hanson is raising “security concerns,” critics insist the act was an insulting political performance designed only to provoke and divide.
One thing is certain:
this moment has left Australia stunned — and the shockwaves are still spreading.
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