NT corruption boss steps aside from inquiry over 'Black Lives Matter' comment

The NT's corruption watchdog Ken Fleming will step aside from his role in the probe into the police shooting of Indigenous teenager Kumanjayi Walker.

The NT's corruption watchdog Ken Fleming (left) will step aside. And (left) protesters demanding answers of the death of teenager Kumanjayi Walker. Source: AAP

The Northern Territory's first Independent Commissioner Against Corruption (ICAC) Ken Fleming QC will step down from his oversight role in relation to the investigation of the recent police shooting death of Indigenous teenager Kumanjayi Walker.

Mr Fleming drew criticism that he was not impartial after saying at a protest rally in Alice Springs: "One of the most important messages today is 'Black Lives Matter'. Anybody who says contrary to that is guilty of corrupt behaviour”.

Mr Fleming referred himself to the ICAC Inspector, Bruce McClintock SC, following the complaints.

Former NT Attorney-General Daryl Manzie called for Mr Fleming to step down.

Demonstrators asking Justice for Kumanjayi Walker. Source: Bertrand Tungandame

Mr Manzie - the CLP vice-president and a former police officer - said Mr Fleming's comments at the rally created a perception of bias.

An online petition calling for Mr Fleming to be sacked was also started on Tuesday.

In stepping down, Mr Fleming said that he had set out to "to give my time" to the NT police and the affected Warlpiri communities "in a balanced manner" since the fatal shooting. 

"My intention, when participating in the community meetings in Central Australia, was to explain our ability to independently look into these matters to the communities who are upset and seeking the truth."

A NT police constable has been charged with murder over the shooting at Yuendumu on 9 November.

Mr Walker died after he was shot in the remote community 300 kilometres from Alice Springs.

 

The fatal shooting saw Australia-wide gathers as part of a national day of action demanding answers.