Australian PM Apologizes for Ableist Slur Aimed at Opposition

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued a formal apology after using an ableist slur to taunt opposition lawmakers during parliamentary question time on Tuesday, CNN reports.

The incident occurred when opposition members repeatedly interrupted Albanese’s speech. In a moment of frustration, Albanese reportedly said, “Have you got Tourette’s or something? You know, you just sit there, babble, babble, babble.” He immediately withdrew the comment and apologized.

Albanese later returned to the chamber to offer a more formal apology.

“I made comments that were unkind and hurtful. I knew it was wrong as soon as I made the comment,” he said, expressing regret for his actions and extended an apology to all Australians living with Tourette’s syndrome.

The Prime Minister’s remarks have sparked widespread criticism, with many condemning his use of the neurological disorder as a means of mockery. Shadow minister for health and aged care Anne Ruston described the comment as “absolutely despicable behaviour” and stressed that Australians living with Tourette’s deserve respect, not ridicule.

Mandy Maysey, president of the Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia, expressed her outrage at the Prime Minister’s actions.

“I’m incredibly disappointed and just gobsmacked somebody that has the national stage would use that platform and Tourette syndrome to make an insult,” she said.

This incident follows public discussions from prominent figures like singers Lewis Capaldi and Billie Eilish who have spoken openly about their experiences living with Tourette’s. Capaldi described the condition as “exhausting” and cited its impact on his recent decision to take a break from touring.