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, promising to bring the party together during a period of internal turmoil.
"I've been placed in this position as a unifier, and unify is what I will do."
Mr Parton succeeded Leanne Castley, who resigned as opposition leader, and Jeremy Hanson, who stepped down as deputy leader, following internal conflicts that included the suspension of two party members by Ms Castley.
"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."
Teaming up with Deborah Morris, Mr Parton aims to align all nine parliamentary members toward a common goal to challenge the government in 2028.
"It is an absolute honour and a privilege to have been elected by my colleagues to lead the party."
He declined to comment on the circumstances leading to the leadership changes and emphasized focusing on moving forward.
"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."
Leadership Transition Summary
- Mark Parton elected as new leader, resigned as Legislative Assembly Speaker.
- Leanne Castley and Jeremy Hanson resigned from leadership positions.
- Mr Parton and Deborah Morris intend to unify nine parliamentary members.
- Focus on contesting government leadership in 2028.
Author's summary: Mark Parton pledges unity to heal divisions within the Canberra Liberals and redirect the party’s focus toward challenging government power in 2028.