Gareth Ward set to be re-elected as Kiama MP despite being suspended from NSW parliament

The ABC has called the seat for the independent MP, who has pleaded not guilty to sexual and indecent assault charges

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An independent MP who was suspended from parliament as he fights sexual and indecent assault charges has been re-elected, according to the ABC, raising new questions about how he would serve in the role.

Former Liberal minister Gareth Ward was leading the rival Labor candidate Katelin McInerney 50.8% to 49.2% on Wednesday morning. ABC election analyst Antony Green called the seat for Ward shortly before 11am, saying he could not be caught by his opponent.