New Zealand PM's Aide Resigns Amid Secret Recording Scandal

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed shock and concern over allegations against his aide, Michael Forbes, who resigned following accusations of secretly recording women.

In a deeply troubling incident, Michael Forbes, the deputy chief press secretary for New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, has resigned amid serious allegations of secretly recording women during private encounters. Reports surfaced when a sex worker discovered Forbes' phone had been audibly recording while he was showering, prompting a broader investigation. Following the revelation, officials examined the phone and found numerous photos, videos, and audio clips that included recordings of sexual encounters and images of women captured in public settings such as gyms and supermarkets.

Prime Minister Luxon expressed his disbelief and dismay at the allegations, stating that he maintains a firm policy of zero tolerance for behavior that endangers the safety of women or anyone else. He extended his sympathy to those affected and emphasized that a thorough review is necessary to address the matter responsibly.

The incident was initially flagged to police by a Wellington brothel last July when staff discovered compromising material on Forbes' device. However, authorities reportedly determined that the evidence did not warrant prosecution at that time. Forbes, who admitted to struggling with personal trauma and stress linked to these events, acknowledged that he failed to take accountability back then and has since sought professional assistance.

Both Prime Minister Luxon and former Social Development Minister Louise Upston insisted they were unaware of any complaints against Forbes prior to this incident. In response to the fallout, Luxon has called for a comprehensive review of inter-agency processes to ensure that such allegations are communicated to relevant authorities more effectively.

This scandal has reignited discussions around the need for stronger privacy legislation to safeguard potential victims of voyeurism and exploitation in New Zealand, highlighting the importance of transparent practices that protect individuals in vulnerable positions.