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 in Canberra, promising to unify the party amid recent turmoil.
Leadership Change and Party Turmoil
The leadership shift occurred after Leanne Castley resigned as opposition leader and Jeremy Hanson stepped down as deputy, less than two weeks following Castley's suspension of two party members.
Mark Parton's Vision for Unity
"I've been placed in this position as a unifier, and unify is what I will do."
Parton emphasized his commitment to ending internal conflicts that clutter party discussions, stating that suburban voters are not interested in such disputes.
"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."
Together with Deborah Morris, he aims to coordinate the nine parliamentary members on a unified course to challenge the government in 2028.
Focus on the Future
Declining to comment on the circumstances leading to the leadership change, Parton stated his priority is moving the party 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."
He called it an honor and privilege to lead the party into a new chapter.
Summary
Mark Parton promises to unite the Canberra Liberals and focus on future elections after a period of internal conflict and leadership changes.
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