Kamahl’s Flip-Flopping on The Voice: A Return to the No Camp

Politics Federal Voice to Parliament: Kamahl Backflips Again on Voice and Returns to No Camp

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September 24, 2023 — 8.41pm

Singer Kamahl has once again changed his stance on the Indigenous Voice, revealing that he will now vote “No” on the proposed advisory body. This decision comes just one day after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Kamahl‘s support for the referendum, calling it a “very big deal” and coining the term “Kamahl-mentum.”

Initially, the 88-year-old declared his opposition to the Indigenous Voice on September 10, arguing that it represented a form of “apartheid.” However, he later reversed his position after studying Indigenous history and speaking with Yes campaigners, announcing his support for the Voice and urging Australians to “learn the facts” and reject the arguments of the No campaign.

Now, in a surprising about-face, Kamahl has once again changed his mind and settled on a No vote. He claims to have learned more about the details of the issue over the past two days and believes that Indigenous people “already have a voice.” He echoes the key arguments of the No camp, stating that the advisory body would divide the nation by race.

During an interview on Channel Ten’s The Project, Kamahl repeatedly mentioned that $40 billion was spent on Indigenous programs each year, a figure that was questioned by the hosts. Quizzed on his reversal, Kamahl defended his new position, saying that his first No vote was uninformed, the Yes vote was semi-informed, and the current No vote is an informed decision.

Kamahl‘s wavering stance has caused confusion, with co-host Sarah Harris asking him directly if he has indeed returned to the No camp. Kamahl‘s response confirmed that he is now firmly committed to voting No, believing that the Voice would turn into a racist issue and segregate a whole race of people from the rest of the country.

Despite acknowledging that the government needs to do more to improve Indigenous livelihoods, Kamahl does not believe that the Voice is the appropriate mechanism for achieving this. He states, “I don’t think you really need a Voice – they already have a voice.”

Prime Minister Albanese had initially praised Kamahl for his support of the Yes campaign, stating that Kamahl had spoken to people, read about the issue, and declared his support for Yes. However, Kamahl‘s recent reversal has prompted him to apologize for his previous statements and ask for forgiveness.

As the October 14 referendum approaches, polling suggests that the Indigenous Voice may ultimately fail. Kamahl, despite his recent flip-flopping, has promised not to change his mind a third time. However, as with any political decision, it is important to carefully consider the facts, the arguments from both sides, and make an informed choice.

Ultimately, the debate over the Indigenous Voice to Parliament highlights the complexity of addressing Indigenous issues in Australia. It raises important questions about representation, voice, and the best mechanisms for achieving meaningful change and reconciliation. It is essential that Australians engage in thoughtful discussions, listen to diverse perspectives, and work towards a future that respects and empowers all citizens, regardless of their background or heritage.