Mark Latham, leader of One Nation NSW, has finally spoken up about the homophobic tweet he made against openly-gay independent MP Alex Greenwich. The tweet was made after Mr Latham attended a rally where Christians clashed with LGBTQI activists outside St Michaels Church in Belfield, south-west Sydney on March 21.
Mr Greenwich labelled Mr Latham a "disgusting human being" for his attendance at the rally and subsequent tweet. Two days later, Mr Lathath removed the tweet following backlash but made another cryptic post on Friday where he said, "never apologise, never explain."
The controversy sparked renewed calls for Mr Lathan to apologise from various political figures including NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe who called the tweet "completely unacceptable." Transport Minister Jo Haylen also weighed in saying she did not believe that Mr Lathan was up to the job and that he should apologise.
In response to the backlash, Mark Latham broke his silence stating that he believed it was important for politicians to attend rallies such as these in order to show support for their constituents' beliefs. He also defended his right to free speech stating that although people may disagree with him they should respect his right to hold differing opinions.
"I stand by my actions and I will continue fighting for what I believe is right," said Mr Lathan in a statement released earlier today.
Despite this statement however there are still many who are calling on him to issue a formal apology. The controversy has once again highlighted tensions between religious groups and LGBTQI communities in Australia prompting some lawmakers to call for greater understanding and dialogue between both sides.
As of now it remains unclear whether or not Mark Latham will heed calls for an apology or if this controversy will have any lasting impact on his political career moving forward.