musk-s-platform-x-defends-controversial-posts-of-australia-s-bishop-stabbing

Elon Musk's social media platform X is embroiled in controversy yet again, this time defending its decision to publish posts depicting the stabbing of a bishop in Australia during a sermon.

Australia’s “E safety commissioner” want Elon Musk to delete this video of a Muslim stabbing a Christian bishop due to “disinformation”. But it’s not ‘“disinformation”. It happened & the perp has been charged with terrorism. It’s inconvenient #eKaren https://t.co/qou9sv7g0U

— Black Semi Fascist (@BFacist) April 24, 2024

 

The platform has refused to comply with an order from the Australian e-Safety Commissioner to take down the content, citing it as part of public discussion.

 

In a statement issued overnight from X's "global government affairs" account, the company argued that the video, captured by an "innocent bystander," should not be banned under Australian law, which allows content that contributes to public debate.

 

The statement emphasized that the posts do not incite or promote violence.

 

However, this stance contradicts claims made by Australian lawmakers who argue that the dissemination of such footage could potentially radicalize individuals and incite violence.

 

Authorities reportedly feared that the video could be used as propaganda by terrorist groups to recruit members.

 

The e-Safety Commissioner ordered X to remove the posts globally in order to prevent Australians from accessing them.

 

Despite the order, X has challenged it, citing concerns over jurisdiction and asserting its commitment to free speech.

 

 A court has temporarily upheld the takedown order pending a hearing scheduled for May 10.

 

The dispute has intensified tensions between Musk and Australian officials, including Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese and a senator.

 

 Musk has framed the takedown order as part of a broader agenda, echoing claims made by others that it is linked to a World Economic Forum initiative to impose global eSafety regulations.

 

In response to the controversy, Musk took to his platform to share posts from another user characterizing the order as part of a larger conspiracy.

 

Musk's endorsement of these claims to his massive following, numbering 181 million, further fueled the debate.