Moira Deeming makes last-ditch plea to Liberal Party to retain candidacy

Victorian Liberal MP Moira Deeming is making a last-ditch effort to retain her candidacy for the upcoming state election, refusing to apologize to a party colleague she accused of assault. Deeming alleged that former party leader Matthew Guy assaulted her at a community event in May.

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grabbed, held and pulled with force that caused me pain and distress

The Liberal Party is now considering revoking Deeming's preselection following her refusal to apologize to Guy. Deeming, who serves in the upper house for the Western Metropolitan Region, has sought an injunction in the Supreme Court, with a one-day trial scheduled for Friday.

In a statement to the party's state executive, Deeming reiterated her accusation that Guy "grabbed, held and pulled with force that caused me pain and distress." While video footage appeared to show Guy placing his hand on Deeming's back during a conversation, police reviewed CCTV and determined no offense was detected. Guy has consistently maintained his innocence and demanded an apology, a stance supported by Opposition Leader Jess Wilson.

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I cannot apologize for using the party's confidential complaint processes.

Deeming has conceded that Guy did not put her in a headlock but insists she will not apologize for making the allegation in good faith. She stated, "I cannot apologize for using the party's confidential complaint processes," and argued she should not face "public vilification or professional retaliation for doing so." Deeming also claimed she was not clearly informed what specific apology was required and that removing her "without reasonable grounds" would be "disgraceful."

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I should not be subjected to public vilification or professional retaliation for doing so.

Deeming proposed a joint statement with the party, suggesting Guy's actions were intended as a "friendly gesture in a noisy environment" and that he did not realize her PTSD condition caused her pain or distress. Her lawyer also wrote to police, complaining her allegation was dismissed without her being interviewed and asserting that an assault includes any application of force, including touching. Police confirmed a thorough investigation found no offense detected.

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disgraceful