‘Warring kingdoms’: cofounder of religious Reformers compares NSW Liberal party factionalism to Braveheart

Robert Assaf, a cofounder of the Reformers, a conservative Liberal factional group, has drawn a stark comparison between the internal power struggles within the New South Wales (NSW) Liberal Party and the "warring kingdoms" depicted in the film Braveheart. Assaf provided testimony to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) on Thursday, a body established in 1980 to investigate corruption and maladministration in public administration in NSW. During his evidence, Assaf candidly admitted that members of the Reformers "didn't think the law applied to us" when it came to the crucial area of political funding. This statement comes amid an ongoing Icac investigation into allegations that the Reformers group, comprised of young conservative Liberal power brokers, solicited illegal donations. The Reformers have been identified as a significant force within the state's conservative political landscape, and their operational methods are now under intense scrutiny.

Assaf's testimony also touched upon the alleged involvement of prominent Liberal figures. He stated that Angus Taylor, the current federal opposition leader and a key figure in the federal Liberal Party, was not "that involved" in the Reformers' specific work. However, Assaf qualified this by adding that Taylor "definitely wasn't opposed" to their activities, suggesting a level of tacit approval or awareness from a senior party member. This testimony is particularly significant as it marks the first time a member of the Reformers has given evidence to the Icac regarding these matters. The commission's investigation is focused on uncovering potential breaches of electoral funding laws, which are designed to ensure transparency and fairness in political donations and to prevent undue influence. The Reformers' alleged disregard for these laws, as suggested by Assaf's remarks, raises serious questions about the integrity of political fundraising and its impact on electoral processes in NSW.

The comparison to Braveheart, a historical epic known for its depiction of fierce battles and rebellion against oppressive rule, suggests a perception within the Reformers of intense internal conflict and a belief that they were operating in a manner that transcended conventional legal boundaries. The Icac's mandate is broad, encompassing the examination of corruption, administrative misconduct, and breaches of public trust. Therefore, this investigation represents a critical examination of political integrity within the NSW Liberal Party, with Assaf's detailed account expected to shed further light on the internal dynamics and operational strategies of a group that has become a focal point in the state's political discourse. The findings of the Icac could have substantial implications for the future governance and regulation of political parties in New South Wales, potentially leading to reforms aimed at strengthening oversight of political donations and activities.