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Liberal MP Ray Williams to leave NSW politics after ICAC corruption probe
Veteran NSW Liberal MP Ray Williams has announced he will not contest the 2027 state election, marking his exit from politics after triggering a major corruption investigation by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC). Williams, the member for Kellyville, made the announcement in parliament on Tuesday, acknowledging the significant personal toll of speaking out against alleged improprieties within his party. His decision follows a 2022 parliamentary speech in which he detailed how senior Liberal members, including Christian Ellis, received substantial payments from property developer Jean Nassif to influence local council appointments. Williams questioned the party's state executive for bypassing standard preselection processes when replacing former Hills Shire mayor Michelle Byrne and six sitting Liberal councillors. The speech initiated a years-long ICAC investigation involving the Liberal Party, property developers, and local government. In a statement to the Sydney Morning Herald, Williams expressed that he would 'do it all again' if faced with the same choice, emphasizing his commitment to upholding 'the highest standards possible' within his party and community. He acknowledged the common fate of whistleblowers in Australia, who often see their career opportunities diminish and face social isolation. Williams stated that while he anticipated being shunned as a whistleblower, he was 'right' in his allegations, and there is 'no place for corruption in any organisation, including my own.' The announcement comes amid ongoing scrutiny of political integrity in New South Wales, with Williams' case highlighting the challenges faced by those who expose corruption within their own parties. His resignation underscores the personal and professional risks associated with whistleblowing in Australian politics, particularly within the Liberal Party. The ICAC investigation, now in its third year, continues to examine the alleged financial arrangements between party members and developers, with potential implications for the future of NSW politics.