New Opposition Leader Aims to Unify Canberra Liberals
Mark Parton, a former radio presenter and moderate Liberal, has been unanimously elected as the new opposition leader of the Canberra Liberals. He replaces Leanne Castley, who resigned after suspending two party members, and Jeremy Hanson, who stepped down as deputy leader.
Commitment to Unity and Moving Forward
"I've been placed in this position as a unifier, and unify is what I will do," Mr Parton said.
Parton expressed frustration with ongoing internal party debates, saying these issues do not concern voters in the suburbs. He emphasized his focus on bringing all nine parliamentary members together to prepare for the 2028 government challenge.
"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."
Leadership Transition Context
The leadership change follows turmoil within the party, including Castley's suspension of members and the resignation of both Castley and Hanson shortly after. Parton declined to comment on these past events, choosing instead to focus on the future.
"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," he said.
Acknowledgment and Vision
Mark Parton called his election to lead the party both an honor and a privilege, signaling a new chapter for the Canberra Liberals aimed at overcoming internal divisions.
"It is an absolute honour and a privilege to have been elected by my colleagues to lead the party."
Alongside Deborah Morris, Parton plans to unify the parliamentary team and strengthen their position ahead of the upcoming election.
Mark Parton pledges to unite the Canberra Liberals and focus on a strong, collective effort to challenge the government in 2028.