(COLOMBO, LANKAPUVATH) –Ken Wyatt was chosen this week to be Australia’s minister for indigenous Australians, the first Aboriginal person ever to hold the role.
It’s a historic appointment which also makes him the first indigenous Australian to sit in cabinet.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison made the announcements as part of his revamped ministry, following a surprise election victory on 18 May.
Many indigenous Australians are celebrating the elevation of Mr Wyatt, a 66-year-old conservative MP.
But deep challenges lie ahead for the newly appointed minister, as Australia grapples with major debates over indigenous recognition and inequality.
