Gingin Councillor Steps Down Following Alleged Threatening Voicemails
In a significant development for the Gingin local government area, councillor Lincoln Stewart has publicly announced his resignation from council. This decision comes amidst reports that he allegedly received threatening voice messages on his personal phone, a situation that has drawn police involvement and sparked broader concerns about conduct within the community.
Resignation Driven by Desire for Free Speech and Legal Focus
Mr Stewart, who has served on the Gingin council since 2023, stated that his resignation is intended to allow him to speak his mind freely without constraints. He emphasised that stepping down will enable him to concentrate fully on ongoing legal proceedings, which he views as crucial for addressing grievances within the local government framework.
In an official statement, Mr Stewart expressed deep frustration with the current local government complaints process, describing it as "biased and broken". He argued that resigning liberates him from potential repercussions under this system, allowing him to "tell the truth about everything" without fear of being entangled in what he perceives as unfair bureaucratic hurdles.
Plans for Civil Lawsuits and Broader Allegations
Beyond his resignation, Mr Stewart has pledged to initiate his own civil lawsuit against individuals he claims are misusing their positions to cause disadvantage to himself and others. While he did not name specific persons in his announcement, this move signals escalating tensions and a determination to pursue legal recourse outside the council's internal mechanisms.
The context of these allegations is further complicated by police involvement. It is understood that Mr Stewart is the councillor allegedly targeted by threatening phone calls, with Steve Balcombe—the husband of Gingin shire president Linda Balcombe—identified as the accused in this matter. Mr Balcombe made his initial court appearance at Midland Court recently, with the case adjourned until mid-March, adding a layer of judicial scrutiny to the situation.
Background of Legal Disputes and Electoral Concerns
Mr Stewart's challenges extend beyond the alleged threats. He is also embroiled in a civil legal battle concerning what he describes as discrepancies in the Gingin local government election from the previous year. This ongoing dispute highlights potential issues with electoral integrity and governance in the region, compounding the pressures that led to his resignation.
As a former independent Senate candidate, Mr Stewart's profile brings additional attention to these matters, underscoring the intersection of local politics with broader legal and ethical questions. His departure from council marks a pivotal moment for Gingin, raising questions about transparency, accountability, and the well-being of public officials in the face of alleged misconduct.
The resignation and surrounding allegations have sparked discussions about the need for reform in local government processes, particularly regarding how complaints are handled and the protection of councillors from intimidation. As the community awaits further developments in both the criminal case and civil lawsuits, the focus remains on ensuring a fair and respectful environment for all involved in public service.
