New Canberra Liberals Leader Vows Unity
Mark Parton, a former radio presenter and moderate Liberal, has been unanimously elected as the new opposition leader of the Canberra Liberals. He positioned himself as a unifying force amid party turmoil.
"I've been placed in this position as a unifier, and unify is what I will do."
Parton resigned as Legislative Assembly Speaker following leadership changes triggered by Leanne Castley's resignation as opposition leader and Jeremy Hanson's departure as deputy leader. This occurred shortly after Castley suspended two party members.
Focus on Moving Forward
Mark Parton emphasized the need to stop internal disputes and focus on the upcoming 2028 government challenge. He expressed frustration with ongoing internal conversations that don't reflect the concerns of the wider community.
"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."
Parton, along with Deborah Morris, aims to unite the nine parliamentary members to work together strongly against the government.
"It is an absolute honour and a privilege to have been elected by my colleagues to lead the party."
Party Divisions and Leadership Transition
Parton declined to comment on the circumstances that led to the leadership changes. He acknowledged that the party has historically been divided, often split between left and right factions.
"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."
His focus remains on bringing cohesion to the Canberra Liberals and preparing to contest the next government election.
Author’s summary: Mark Parton steps up as Canberra Liberals leader with a promise to overcome internal divisions and unite the party for the 2028 election campaign.