As King Charles and Queen Camilla tour Australia to remain the head of state, criticism has surfaced not only from political figures but also from public perception. Some people are even dubbing Queen Camilla “the downgrade of the century,” drawing comparisons between her and the late Queen Elizabeth II.
King Charles Faces Criticism in Australia
During the tour, King Charles was confronted by Indigenous Australian senator Lidia Thorpe, who made it clear that she does not recognise him as her king. The senator, speaking after a significant speech by Charles at Australia’s Parliament House, accused the British monarchy of committing “genocide” against Australia’s Indigenous people and called for a treaty.
Senator Lidia Thorpe’s Protest
Senator Thorpe waited until the end of King Charles’ address before launching her verbal protest. She criticised the Commonwealth for its historical treatment of First Nations people, accusing the British monarchy of land theft and the destruction of Indigenous communities.
“You are not our king, you are not sovereign,” she shouted, as she was gently ushered out of the hall. Thorpe demanded the return of stolen land and a formal treaty between Australia’s First Nations and the government. “Give us what you stole from us, our land, our babies, our people,” she added.
Calls for Decolonisation
The protest during Charles and Camilla’s tour aligns with growing resistance from First Nations groups who are demanding decolonisation. Banners with the word “decolonise” have appeared at several events throughout the royal visit, reflecting the continued discontent with Australia’s colonial history.
Thorpe’s emotional plea culminated in her shouting: “This is not your land, this is not your country, you are not my king.”
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