Victorian Premier Hosts Iftar Dinner, Defends Against Political Criticism

0:00From the Daily News Now Network, this is Sydney News Today. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen has defended her government's hosting of a large Iftar dinner during Ramadan, insisting it's not a political event. The Wednesday night gathering brought together many labor ministers and back ventures, the police commissioner and members of the Islamic community, with just one opposition member present. Allen said the event aimed to show support for Muslims facing rising Islamophobia. Earlier this week, the dinner featured speeches from Allen and her multicultural affairs minister, but no faith leaders or opposition voices at first. Critics worry these taxpayer-funded gatherings favor labor politically, especially after reports of the premier's office influencing guest lists and, seating at similar events. Community reactions are mixed. One Islamic leader called it, more like an election pitch, suggesting support depends on backing labor. But a board member of Imam's Victoria praised the diverse turnout and felt reassured by

1:00the government's presence. Freedom of information documents revealed deeper involvement by Allen's office in past multicultural dinners, like last August's gala that cost over. $438,000. There, nearly 200 seats went to labor figures, with limited spots for the opposition. Meanwhile, opposition leaders were invited after raising concerns, and a similar event in Sydney got canceled due to tensions with Muslim groups. Allen rejected claims of misusing public funds, calling them completely wrong. This DNN story comes to you thanks to our sponsor. When you want calm, do not reach for your phone. Stay back and listen, S-O-L-I-SOLYPELLOW.COM.