Australia's deputy leader was disqualified from his position because he had dual citizenship when he was elected. Australia's constitution prohibits dual nationals from being elected because they are a "subject or citizen of a foreign power". Australia's ruling National Party* has just 75 seats in the 150-seat House of Representatives. The deputy leader could return to office in the future because he renounced his New Zealand citizenship.
The deputy leader said the decision showed Australia's democratic values. He said: "I respect the verdict of the court….It has given us all the freedoms we see." He added: "The decision…is clearly not the outcome we were hoping for, but the business of government goes on." Many Australians believe the dual citizenship laws should change. Around 28 per cent of Australians were born overseas. Many have a family history that entitles them to dual citizenship.
*CORRECTION: Australia's current government is a coalition between the Liberal Party and the National Party. The Prime Minister is Malcolm Turnbull from the Liberal Party. Barnaby Joyce is from the National Party.