New Canberra Liberals Leader Commits to Unify Party
Mark Parton, a former radio presenter and moderate Liberal, has been unanimously elected as the new leader of the Canberra Liberals, stepping in after recent leadership resignations.
Leadership Change and Context
Mr. Parton replaced Leanne Castley, who resigned as opposition leader, and Jeremy Hanson, who quit as deputy leader. These changes occurred shortly after two party members were suspended by Ms. Castley.
Mark Parton's Unifying Message
"I've been placed in this position as a unifier, and unify is what I will do."
"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."
He emphasized the need to move forward as a cohesive team:
"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."
Focus on Future, Not Past Divisions
Mr. Parton declined to discuss the internal issues that led to the leadership shift, focusing instead on uniting the party to prepare for upcoming elections.
"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 described it as an honor and privilege to lead the party.
Summary
Mark Parton takes the helm of the Canberra Liberals determined to heal internal divides and build a united opposition for the 2028 government challenge.