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'Culture of control': Minister threatens council over 'silencing' dissent

The article from The Sydney Morning Herald discusses a situation where NSW Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig has threatened to dismiss the City of Canterbury Bankstown Council due to its alleged suppression of dissent. The council had reportedly banned a local resident, Peter, from speaking at meetings after he criticized the council's handling of a development application. This action was seen as an attempt to silence opposition, prompting Minister Hoenig to warn that such behavior could lead to the council's dismissal. The minister emphasized the importance of free speech and democratic processes, stating that councils must not stifle public participation. The council's actions have raised concerns about a "culture of control" and the potential overreach of local government authority, highlighting tensions between local governance and community rights.

Read the Full Sydney Morning Herald Article at:
[ https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/culture-of-control-minister-threatens-council-over-silencing-dissent-20241208-p5kwoj.html ]