New Opposition Leader Pledges Unity for Canberra Liberals
Mark Parton, a former radio presenter and moderate Liberal, has been unanimously elected as the new opposition leader for the Canberra Liberals, following the resignations of previous leaders amid internal turmoil.
Commitment to Unify the Party
Mr. Parton emphasized his role as a unifier, stating:
“I've been placed in this position as a unifier, and unify is what I will do.”
He expressed frustration with ongoing internal disputes, noting:
“I'm absolutely sick to death of having conversations about internal party matters, because I can tell you that people out in the suburbs are not having those conversations.”
Focus on Future Elections
Alongside deputy Deborah Morris, Parton aims to unite the nine parliamentary members toward the 2028 government challenge:
“I am here, along with Deborah Morris, to get nine parliamentary members on the same train heading forward so that we can take on the government in 2028.”
He described his election as “an absolute honour and a privilege.”
Background of Leadership Change
- Leanne Castley resigned as opposition leader.
- Jeremy Hanson stepped down as deputy leader.
- These resignations followed Castley suspending two party members.
Parton declined to comment on the reasons behind the leadership changes, choosing instead to focus on party unity and progress.
“I believe that in the past, my party has been divided. There's no question, as is the case with many political parties, my party's often been divided by a line that separates the left and the right.”
Additional Note
Following his election, Parton resigned as Legislative Assembly Speaker to take on his new leadership role.
Author’s summary: Mark Parton takes charge as Canberra Liberals' leader, pledging to move past divisions and unify the party for the 2028 election challenge.