A significant political development unfolded in New South Wales as Gareth Ward, an independent member of parliament, resigned amid a brewing ethical storm.

According to ABC News, shortly before a historical expulsion vote, Ward stepped down following his convictions for serious sex offenses against two young men.

Ward's decision to resign came just before lawmakers were due to mull over his expulsion. The parliamentary history of New South Wales had not seen an expulsion from its lower house in over 100 years.

Facing convictions that include one count of sexual intercourse without consent, Ward's resignation avoided what could have been an unprecedented removal.

Resignation Precedes Planned Expulsion Vote

Ward’s legal troubles began with his convictions in July for offenses against a political staffer in 2015 and an 18-year-old at his home in 2013.

Following these convictions, Ward was imprisoned and now awaits sentencing, which is set for September. He faces a potential 14-year sentence.

The political landscape of New South Wales was abuzz as Ward had initially resisted resigning after his bail was revoked. Even while incarcerated, he mounted a legal challenge against the planned expulsion vote, though this effort was unsuccessful in the appeals court.

Ultimately, Ward resigned Friday, saving legislators the task of casting their votes on the controversial matter. His legal counsel argued his convictions did not directly equate to "unworthy conduct," a term previously applied for rare expulsions.

Such expulsions are rare in Australian legislatures, with the last one in New South Wales dating back to 1917 for "unworthy conduct." Had the expulsion taken place, Ward would have marked a historical chapter, being the first lawmaker removed in over a century under such circumstances.

Ward's political career began as a Liberal Party member when elected to the seat of Kiama in 2011. However, the surfacing of legal issues in 2022 prompted his departure from the party, after which he continued as an independent.

Despite his suspension from Parliament decisions in 2022, Ward's constituents opted to reelect him in 2023, demonstrating a continued support base. This reelection, however, occurred before his serious legal convictions emerged as a decisive factor.

State Premier and House Leader Comment on Situation

State Premier Chris Minns offered stark criticism of Ward's position amid his legal faltering. Minns candidly remarked on the infeasibility of serving a parliamentary role while imprisoned.

If you’re convicted of some of the most serious charges, sexual assault in New South Wales, you can’t sit as a serving member of parliament drawing a parliamentary salary. How can you represent your community from behind bars in Cessnock?

Similarly, Leader of the House Ron Hoenig described the political events surrounding Ward's late resignation as “shameful,” questioning how Ward's name could go down in history. Hoenig expressed astonishment at the conduct culminating in a potential historical infamy.

In contrast to the swirling political and public discourse, Ward did not release any public statements when he left his post.

His silence left questions about his future defense and plans as he appeals his convictions while awaiting sentencing.

Ward's exit almost certainly averted a controversial parliamentary alienation, but it has fueled debates on political accountability and the ethical grounds for expulsion. As the legal process unfolds, with a sentencing hearing on the horizon, public attention remains fixed on his case.