Arabic version: رئيس وزراء غرب أستراليا يدعو إلى الوحدة بعد اعتقال مخطط إرهابي

Western Australia Premier Roger Cook has called for an end to divisive political rhetoric following the arrest of a 20-year-old man accused of preparing a terrorist attack. Cook made his remarks during a visit to a mosque in Perth, where he joined Muslim leaders and the WA police commissioner to discuss the implications of the recent events.

According to The Guardian, Jayson Joseph Michaels, from Bindoon, appeared at the Perth magistrates court on Friday, charged with acting in preparation for a terrorist act, possessing a prohibited weapon, two firearms offences and using a carriage service to menace or harass. Police allege that Michaels, motivated by white supremacy, had outlined plans for a violent act targeting mass casualties.

During the mosque visit, Cook emphasized the need for political leaders to “lower the temperature” of immigration debates and to reject the language of division. He echoed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s statement regarding the responsibility of political figures to avoid inciting bigotry. Cook condemned the practice of “dog whistling” in political discourse, urging the community to stand against such rhetoric.

Imam Mohammed Shakib of the Perth mosque also spoke out against divisive political speech, highlighting the normalization of Islamophobia and the impact of such comments on the Muslim community. He pointed out the stark contrast in reactions to negative statements made about different faiths.

WA police commissioner Col Blanch noted that while white supremacy is not prevalent in the community, there exists a small minority intent on causing harm. He confirmed that Michaels was not previously known to law enforcement and that his family is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The police continue to analyze communications linked to Michaels, who is currently in custody and set to appear in court on March 23.