Gisele Kapterian Concedes Bradfield Seat, Ending Four-Month Federal Election Challenge

Bradfield Election Result Final: Gisele Kapterian Concedes to Nicolette Boele

After a protracted period following the May federal election, Gisele Kapterian, the Liberal candidate, has conceded defeat in the Sydney seat of Bradfield to Independent MP Nicolette Boele. Kapterian abandoned her legal challenge, accepting the election outcome after a review of ballot papers.

The Tight Race in Bradfield

The Bradfield race was exceptionally close. Initially, Kapterian was declared the winner by a mere eight votes. A subsequent recount, however, saw Boele emerge victorious with a slim margin of 26 votes. This prompted legal action from the NSW Liberal Party, seeking to review the validity of 151 ballot papers out of approximately 118,000.

Kapterian's Statement

In a statement, Kapterian acknowledged the accuracy of the election results. "After a final review of the ballot papers following the two different results in Bradfield, I am satisfied that, overall, the correct outcome has been declared," she stated. She further expressed gratitude for the electoral system's support for scrutiny, considering the subjective nature of ballot interpretation.

"With two different outcomes declaring two different winners, I'm grateful our electoral system anticipates and supports the need for further scrutiny through a statutory right. This is particularly so given the often difficult and subjective nature of ballot interpretation." - Gisele Kapterian

AEC's Response

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has been notified of Kapterian's decision. AEC Commissioner Jeff Pope affirmed that "Australians can be confident that the AEC left absolutely no stone unturned when it came to scrutinising this extremely close election result under the very watchful eye of many scrutineers."

Bradfield's History and Boele's Victory

The seat of Bradfield, located on Sydney's North Shore, had been a Liberal stronghold for 75 years. Boele's victory marks a historic shift, as she becomes the first non-Liberal MP to represent the electorate. Kapterian wished Boele well in her role and thanked the people of Bradfield.

Boele's Reaction and Commitment

Nicolette Boele accepted Kapterian's concession and acknowledged the "privilege of my lifetime" in continuing to serve as the Bradfield MP. She emphasized her commitment to serving with integrity, care, and dedication. "Serving this community is the privilege of my lifetime, and I do not take this responsibility lightly," Boele stated.

Safeguards in the Australian Electoral System

Boele also highlighted the importance of the safeguards within the Australian electoral system. She said being part of the process had given her an "even greater appreciation" for the safeguards in place and the value of every single vote. "While we watch checks and balances erode in other countries, our electoral and judicial processes are something we can genuinely celebrate here at home," she remarked.

Impact on Liberal Party

The loss in Bradfield represents a blow to the Liberal Party. Kapterian's defeat also impacts Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, who had tentatively included Kapterian in her shadow ministry pending the election outcome. The party now faces further reflection on its policy agenda and strategy.