Social media platform X to challenge Australian regulator’s order to remove posts on stabbing of Sydney bishop

Social media platform X is gearing up for a legal battle with Australian regulators over the removal of posts related to the recent stabbing of a bishop in Sydney. The company announced on Saturday that it would challenge an order from the Australian eSafety Commissioner demanding the removal of certain posts that commented on the attack against Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel.

The incident, which took place at a church in the New South Wales capital, saw a 16-year-old boy charged with a terrorism offense for allegedly stabbing Bishop Emmanuel. Video footage from the scene showed the boy being restrained by the congregation as he shouted accusations that the bishop had insulted Islam.

X’s Global Government Affairs team stated that the eSafety Commissioner had ordered the platform to remove the posts or face hefty fines. The company argued that the order was not within the scope of Australian law and that it complied with the directive pending a legal challenge.

In response, the eSafety Commissioner emphasized that it was working to ensure X’s compliance with Australian law and hinted at the possibility of further regulatory action. The regulator, tasked with removing harmful online content, had previously sent legal letters to social media platforms, including X, demanding information about their efforts to combat terrorism content.

Bishop Emmanuel, known for his controversial views on various topics, has a significant online following but has also faced criticism for his divisive preaching. The bishop has made outspoken remarks on issues such as homosexuality, COVID vaccinations, Islam, and U.S. President Joe Biden’s election.

As the legal battle between X and Australian regulators unfolds, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for the regulation of online content in the country. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.