Australian police probe racist, Islamophobic banners seen on election day

ANKARA

Australian authorities have launched an investigation after racist and Islamophobic banners were displayed from overpasses in Melbourne during the country’s federal election day, SBS News reported.

Victoria Police confirmed the probe, saying groups dressed in black with face coverings were seen on several overpasses along Melbourne’s Monash Freeway. The individuals held banners with slogans such as “No black votes should count,” “No Muslim votes should count,” and “Only Aussie votes should count.”

The banners sparked outrage across the country, with Muslim Australians describing the incident as disturbing and harmful to young community members.

"Imagine having a little Asian child [or] a Muslim child in the back of a seat just driving with your family on a Saturday morning, and then you just see this racism," one local Muslim told the broadcaster.

Millions of Australians turned out on Saturday to vote for the 150 members of the House of Representatives in a pivotal federal election.

In a statement, Muslim Votes Matter National spokesman Ghaith Krayem praised the community’s engagement during the campaign.

He said the Muslim community demonstrated that they can “organize independently and contribute to the broader political conversation.”

“Whatever the final outcome at the polls, the community’s achievements in this election are clear,” he said. “We have raised awareness, strengthened civic knowledge, and encouraged many first-time voters to participate.”