New Leader Pledges Unity for Canberra Liberals
Mark Parton, former radio presenter and moderate Liberal, has been unanimously elected as the new leader of the Canberra Liberals, following the resignation of Leanne Castley and Jeremy Hanson. He aims to unite the party after a period of internal turmoil.
Commitment to Leave Division Behind
"I've been placed in this position as a unifier, and unify is what I will do," said Mr Parton.
He emphasized the need to move past internal conflicts, stating his frustration with ongoing party disputes that the public does not engage with.
"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."
Focus on Party Unity and Future Elections
Mr Parton, along with Deborah Morris, is focused on bringing the nine parliamentary party members together to present a united front against the government in the 2028 election.
"And so 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."
He expressed pride in being chosen by his colleagues to lead and is determined to keep the party moving forward rather than dwell on past conflicts.
Reflection on Party Divisions
Mr Parton acknowledged divisions within the party, notably between left and right factions, which have paralleled issues faced by many political groups.
"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 resigned as Legislative Assembly Speaker to take on his new role as opposition leader, signaling a fresh start for the Canberra Liberals.