Liberal Candidate Gisele Kapterian Takes Bradfield Election Dispute to High Court
Defeated Liberal candidate Gisele Kapterian has filed a High Court petition challenging the outcome of the Bradfield federal seat, following a narrow loss to independent Nicolette Boele. Initially ahead by eight votes after preference distribution, a recount flipped the result in Boele’s favour by 26 votes.
Kapterian is seeking a review of over 150 ballots, alleging that at least 56 votes in her favour were wrongly rejected due to allegedly unclear or illegible numbering. She argues that voters’ intent was clear and the ballots should have been counted. Additionally, she questions the validity of 93 ballots accepted in favour of Boele, some of which she claims have similar issues or markings that could identify the voter.
In a statement, Kapterian emphasized that her legal challenge is not about disputing the electoral system’s integrity but ensuring every valid vote is counted. Boele, preparing for her first parliamentary speech, said she will seek public donations to cover legal costs, stating, “Everything we’ve worked for is on the line.”
The High Court, sitting as the Court of Disputed Returns, has not yet scheduled a date for the hearing.
