One Nation national director James Ashby has defended the party's decision to bar journalists from the ABC and The Guardian from a press conference in Melbourne, citing what he described as unfair targeting and labeling the outlets "morally bankrupt." The ejection occurred on Tuesday as reporters gathered for a conference addressed by One Nation's Victorian leader, Warren Pickering, who was facing allegations regarding his past, including historical methamphetamine use and a drink-driving conviction.
Pickering subsequently admitted to having used methamphetamine as a young man, a reversal from earlier denials concerning some of the claims. Video footage of the event shows Ashby directing reporters from the ABC and The Guardian to leave the room.
In a Wednesday interview with Nine News, Ashby was pressed on the exclusion, especially given One Nation's stated advocacy for transparency and free speech. He maintained the party's right to determine media attendance at its events. "We don't want morally bankrupt or corrupt media organisations coming into a room," Ashby stated. "We're happy to face the tough questions."
Ashby further asserted that One Nation would continue to control media access. "It's not your right. We'll make that decision, depending on how you treat us. We'll treat you accordingly," he said.
Ashby drew a comparison between dealing with the ABC and an abusive relationship, saying, "With the ABC it's like going back to some domestic violence relationship and just getting beaten every time they come through the door." The comment prompted a swift response from the program's co-host.
The press conference itself focused on Pickering, who remains the Victorian leader for One Nation despite admitting to past drug use. Ashby defended the party's vetting process, stating that the initial questions put to Pickering were inaccurate and that Pickering intended to correct the record. "There's no deception. Warren Pickering is now on the record saying that as a young man he dabbled in drugs," Ashby said, adding that he believed this admission was more courageous than politicians who attempt to conceal such pasts.