New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has expressed profound shock and concern following revelations that his deputy chief press secretary, Michael Forbes, secretly recorded women without their consent. The scandal has ignited nationwide discussions on privacy rights and the adequacy of existing laws.
Allegations Surface Against Senior Aide
Michael Forbes, a former journalist appointed as Luxon’s deputy chief press secretary in February 2025, resigned after allegations emerged that he had covertly recorded audio of sessions with sex workers and taken unauthorized photographs of women in various settings, including gyms and private residences. The issue came to light when a sex worker discovered Forbes’s phone recording during an encounter, leading to further discoveries of similar recordings and images on his device.
Prime Minister’s Response and Calls for Legal Reform
Prime Minister Luxon described the revelations as “incredibly concerning and shocking,” acknowledging the distress caused to the women involved. He emphasized the need to review and potentially strengthen New Zealand’s privacy laws, including the harmful digital communications and stalking legislation, to address such violations more effectively.
Police Investigation and Legal Considerations
Police investigated the allegations but concluded that the evidence did not meet the threshold for criminal prosecution. Forbes admitted to taking the recordings and images, deleted them in the presence of police, and was encouraged to seek professional help. The Department of Internal Affairs is conducting a comprehensive review to understand the circumstances and prevent future occurrences.
Public Outcry and Advocacy for Women’s Safety
The incident has sparked public outrage and heightened concerns about women’s safety and privacy. Advocates, including the manager of the Wellington brothel involved, have called for stronger protections against non-consensual recording and emphasized the broader issue of unauthorized surveillance of women.
Forbes’s Apology and Commitment to Change
In a public statement, Forbes apologized to the women he harmed, attributing his actions to unresolved trauma and stress. He acknowledged the breach of trust and expressed a commitment to seeking professional help and making amends.
The case has prompted a national conversation about privacy rights, the adequacy of existing laws, and the importance of safeguarding individuals against unauthorized surveillance. As the government considers legal reforms, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance in protecting personal privacy and ensuring accountability for violations.
