Moderate Liberal Assumes Leadership After Party Turmoil
A moderate Liberal has taken charge of one of the party's weakest branches following the abrupt resignation of its two leaders. Mark Parton now leads the Canberra Liberals after Leanne Castley and her deputy, Jeremy Hanson, stepped down on Monday. They believe this change offers the best chance for the Liberals to win government in 2028.
"In the spirit of ensuring a genuine fresh start for the new team, we will not be commenting publicly on the circumstances that have led to this decision," said Ms. Castley in a Monday statement.
Background of Leadership Change
Ms. Castley previously replaced then-Liberal leader Elizabeth Lee after the party’s defeat in the October 2024 election. The Canberra Liberals have struggled in the political landscape for over twenty years and will have been in opposition for nearly 27 years by the 2028 election.
New Deputy Leadership
Deborah Morris, known for her conservative stance, has taken on the role of deputy leader.
Party Unity and Future Goals
Mark Parton emphasized the importance of party cohesion in his statement:
"It's vital that we continue to strengthen the cohesion within our party. By encouraging open dialogue, valuing diverse perspectives, and finding common ground, we can reinforce our shared purpose."
The Canberra Liberals have faced criticism for being too conservative for the progressive ACT region, where they hold no federal seats.
Summary: Mark Parton's leadership marks a strategic effort to unify the Canberra Liberals and improve their prospects for winning government in 2028 amidst long-term struggles and internal challenges.