Protest arrest overshadows NT Administrator swearing-in as controversy over past posts continues

A protest outside the Northern Territory Parliament has turned chaotic, with Larrakia Traditional Owner Eric Fejo arrested during the swearing-in of incoming Administrator David Connolly – an appointment that has drawn sustained opposition since offensive social media posts resurfaced earlier this year.

Mr Fejo, 61, was arrested for trespass as protesters gathered in Darwin, with chants of “not my administrator” heard as Mr Connolly arrived for the ceremony. The protest included senior political figures, including the federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy, federal MP Marion Scrymgour, independent NT member for Mulka Yingiya Guyula, NT Opposition Leader Selena Uibo, and others. Mr Connolly was sworn in by Governor-General Sam Mostyn, with NT Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro continuing to back the appointment.

The role of Administrator (the Territory’s equivalent of a state governor) is intended to be politically neutral. But criticism has centred on past online commentary attributed to Mr Connolly, which community leaders and politicians have described as “racist” and “denigrating of women”, prompting calls for the appointment to be revoked.

In his first address, Mr Connolly said his work would be forward-looking and committed to “impartiality and with respect and care for every Territorian”. He urged the public to assess his conduct over time, saying: “Judge me not by the first headlines, but by the months and years of service to the NT and its people that I have committed to.”

Mr Connolly also acknowledged the controversy, referencing an apology released shortly before the ceremony. The ABC reported the statement said he “deeply” regretted the posts and had “never intended to cause offence”.

The Guardian reported the backlash has extended beyond the street protest, with Aboriginal leaders and some NT politicians indicating they would not engage with Mr Connolly and calls for the Prime Minister to intervene.

For many Territorians, the dispute has sharpened broader questions about trust, accountability and what respectful leadership looks like in a jurisdiction where relationships between government and First Nations communities are central to policy, service delivery and reconciliation efforts.