Labor MP Husic speaks of leadership ambitions
Labor MP Ed Husic says his Islamic faith would have to be “overcome” if his colleagues were to consider him a future party leader as he vents his frustration about being on the backbench.
Mr Husic, who voluntarily vacated a frontbench position for Kristina Keneally after the 2019 election, said he would be the “darkest of dark horses” in the next contest for Labor leader.
When asked if it would interest him, Mr Husic said it would be a “profound honour” to lead the party.
“But to be blunt with you I would have a few factors I would have to overcome to even be considered for leadership,” Mr Husic told Sky News.
“To be honest, if I could be as blunt as I can to you, being someone of my faith, of the Muslim faith and Australia thinking you might have somewhat of a leadership position for the Islamic faith in that type of role is something a lot of people would need some time to think about.
“I think Australia has evolved and I think the 21st century has opened up a lot of opportunities to people. There would be some people who just wouldn’t consider it. There would be others who would genuinely want to see how it would work.
“I wouldn’t rule out that people could see that happening but in my case it would have to be something people talked long about before it was even considered. That is just the reality.”
Mr Husic said criticisms of Anthony Albanese’s leadership were a “tough call” because “pandemics have changed the focus and politics just gravitates towards the government”.
Mr Husic said being on the backbench was frustrating and he hoped it was only short term. He said if a frontbench vacancy opened up in the NSW Right he would “love to have the chance to be considered.”
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