Senator Fatima Payman
Senator Welcomes Palestinian Recognition
Western Australia's only independent Senator, Fatima Payman, has welcomed the government's decision to finally recognise a Palestinian state, saying it is an important step toward peace in the Middle East.
"Credit must be given where credit is due, and I would like to congratulate Labor for recognising Palestine and its right to exist as an independent state," Senator Payman said.
She also paid tribute to the Labor Party members and union members whose unwavering resolve and persistent internal pressure moved the government to do what's right and stand on the right side of history.
"This is a proud moment for all the brave Labor party members and unionists for their relentless pursuit of justice for the Palestinian people."
But it is a bittersweet time for Senator Payman, coming almost a year after being forced out of Labor for supporting the same issue.
"Having to cross the floor to vote for such an important issue and then having to endure the resulting fallout from Labor and some in the community was one of the most stressful moments of my life, but it is terrific to know that Labor has finally caught up and that my move has been vindicated," she said.
"I'm sanguine about it now because it has all turned out very well, and I am relishing my position and my platform as WA's only independent Senator instead."
"I am now in the wonderful position of being the only WA Senator able to put voters first and not have to toe a party line."
"It's been liberating and empowering, and I am certainly not looking back," Senator Payman said.
She added that recognition is just the first step:
"Now we need sanctions on Israel, an end to the arms trade, full transparency in our trade relationships, and recognition of the Palestinian right to return. Only then can recognition be matched with the meaningful action Palestinians deserve."
Senator Fatima Payman
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