New Zealand PM Outraged as Aide Resigns Amid Secret Recording Allegations

Michael Forbes, who served as deputy chief press secretary, is at the center of serious allegations involving unauthorized audio recordings and images that have sparked a broader conversation on privacy laws in New Zealand.

Following the resignation of Michael Forbes from his position as deputy chief press secretary to New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, the nation is reevaluating privacy and misconduct standards in professional settings. Forbes faces severe allegations of clandestinely capturing photos and audio recordings during sexual encounters, which were brought to light after a sex worker discovered that his phone was recording audio in the shower.

Forbes extended his sincerest apologies to the women affected by his actions, which were deemed intrusive and unlawful. Reports indicate his phone harbored an unsettling collection of photos and videos taken in public spaces like gyms and supermarkets, alongside recordings made during intimate situations.

Prime Minister Luxon expressed astonishment over the allegations, labeling the behavior as unacceptable and reiterating his administration's "zero tolerance" stance against actions that compromise individual safety and privacy. Reflecting on the incident, he commented that his sympathies lie with the women who felt unsafe due to Forbes' behavior.

Luxon, alongside fellow political figures, has suggested a reevaluation of New Zealand's privacy laws to better protect potential victims of voyeurism. The case had previously come to police attention after complaints regarding images found on Forbes' phone first surfaced last July, although authorities decided not to prosecute at that time.

The scandal has raised questions regarding accountability and transparency in government ranks, with Luxon calling for a thorough review of "inter-agency processes." The Prime Minister noted that police had knowledge of the allegations in mid-2024 but failed to alert ministers to the unfolding investigation.

Forbes, in his statement, has attributed his regrettable actions to "unresolved trauma and stress," indicating that he sought professional help following these revelations. Nevertheless, he acknowledged his failure to extend a genuine apology earlier in the process. As investigations continue, the case serves as a critical reminder of the need for robust mechanisms to safeguard individuals' privacy and expertise in handling sensitive allegations within political frameworks.