New Zealand’s Defence Minister, Judith Collins, has condemned online trolling targeting the female captain of HMNZS Manawanui, which sank near the Samoan island of Upolu. The incident, which occurred while the ship was surveying a reef, resulted in the evacuation of all 75 personnel on board, who were rescued early Sunday morning.
While investigating the cause of the incident, Collins highlighted that the gender of the ship’s captain, British-born Commander Yvonne Gray, is not to blame for the mishap. “The one thing that we already know did not cause it is the gender of the ship’s captain,” she stated, emphasizing the need for decency and respect amidst the backlash.
Commander Gray, who previously served in the UK’s Royal Navy, expressed her distress over the incident, describing it as her “very worst imagining” becoming a reality. However, she praised her crew for their commitment and courage during the emergency response.
Collins voiced her outrage over the online criticisms, referring to those making disparaging comments as “armchair admirals.” She noted that these individuals, who have never faced life-and-death decisions, should refrain from posting such “vile” comments. She also mentioned an increase in abuse directed at women in uniform in New Zealand, stating, “This is outrageous behaviour, and New Zealand is not known for this. We are better than it.”
The sinking of HMNZS Manawanui marks the first loss of a New Zealand naval ship to the sea since World War II. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the grounding and the potential environmental impacts. Collins previously indicated that the area had not been surveyed since 1987.
Samoa’s Marine Pollution Advisory Committee reported that the ship was leaking oil from three locations but noted no oil had washed ashore. Concerns about the potential environmental effects remain, particularly for local wildlife. A resident expressed worries about the impact on the area’s green sea turtles and coconut crabs, highlighting the ecological significance of the region.
In response to the incident, New Zealand’s Defence Force has mobilized a team to address possible contamination and debris removal along local beaches. Additionally, divers from the Samoan Ministry of Resources and Natural Environment are assessing damage to the reef where the ship capsized.
While New Zealand has a strong history of gender equality and was the first nation to grant women the right to vote, Collins’ comments underscore the ongoing discussions around misogyny, particularly in the context of leadership roles. Approximately 20% of New Zealand’s defense personnel are women, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity within the armed forces.