As the voting booths for the UQ Student Union Elections open tonight for college students, Colin Finke deemed it necessary to give a short address at dinner in order to 'speak out against unfounded allegations brought upon the current Fresh party. Allegations of misconduct and foul play have rocked UQ in recent weeks after what i can only describe as a immoral act of cowardice and injustice. Previously a Fresh supporter due to their ongoing and generous support toward college life, I was horrified by the unethical actions of Fresh.
Having changed the constitutional right under the UQ Union Student laws of entitlement to ownership for a decade of a previously listed party name, to that in which a party must re-apply every year, Fresh has essentially ensured a continuing term in power.
Allow a completely legal act, the obvious implication here is the moral and ethical dilemma that now stands in the way of our right to democratically have options come voting day.
Being a Cromwell College resident in the few weeks has been far from uneventful. Especially considering that the current President and many of the Pulse 'running delegates' are my 'noisy neighbours'. It has been interesting to see observe the growing divide also in the college community that previously hasn't existed. Although assured for a next term in power, i feel that this stunt was in a lot of ways politically immature. Fresh have alienated and unsettled there largest and most devoted support base, in the college system. Previously united in an attempt to ensure continued support for college events, many students such as myself are now left bitter and resentful. This is of course overtly promotional to the general university student population and perspective.
It is encouraging to see the gross coverage by the media of this issue. originally simply a social network and on campus movement. Democracy 4UQU has picked a broad and devoted following. The willingness for numerous news outlets who have picked up the story, seemed curious to me.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-08-29/angry-protests-over-uq-student-union-election/4231260
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/higher-education/uq-shines-spotlight-on-student-union-activity/story-e6frgcjx-1226460171774
http://www.crikey.com.au/2012/08/27/university-of-queensland-union-documents/
http://www.news.com.au/national/university-of-queensland-to-hold-hearing-over-union-freshs-dirty-tactics/story-fndo4ckr-1226455938819
http://www.abc.net.au/triplej/hack/stories/s3572763.htm
http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/opposition-candidates-withdraw-from-university-of-queensland-student-union-election-after-incumbent-party-changes-rules/story-e6freon6-1226454793016
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/allegations-fly-over-brisbane-university-election-20120820-24idh.html
However the obvious link between Fresh and the Queensland Liberal National Party makes it a topical issue, i guess. Although fresh deny any alliance or party political links and bias, it is clear to see and is emphasised by the 'friendship' they share with LNP Senator George Brandis. Who has publically endorsed the Fresh Executive in Parliament as his 'friends'. See link below,
Although everything seems to be coming to a natural end, it certainly seems to me that more transparency os needed now and for the future. Hopefully the recently announced audit of the Union proves to be a step in the right direction.
peace. x
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